How to say NO to coffee chats??

Associate 1 in PE - LBOs

Anonymous

Hey man, I know you’re being facetious as you yourself should know that it looks odd and awkward to just say “no” when someone (whom you’re trying to network with) suggest you guys meet up for coffee. Need to offer more substance. What would be the best way to phrase it without being disrespectful?

Howard Hughes

Senior Neanderthal

Rather than flat out not grab coffee, could you go somewhere that’s not so busy and take proper precautions?

You say you have a sick family member at home - do you actively live with this person? Or just living in the same place for the time being? Because if the latter, try setting up all your coffee chats within the same week or something, and move back into your place in quarantine for the 10 days after (new COVID guidelines, instead of the previous 14 day recommendation).

Authored by: Certified Investment Banking Professional - 1st Year AssociateCertified Investment Banking Pro

Associate 1 in PE - LBOs

Anonymous

Thank you for your thoughtful response. Yes, I've been actively living with this person and his family for the past few months. This is my extended family. I moved into the city for the first time a few months ago and have been crashing at their place...What do you think I should do?

Howard Hughes

Senior Neanderthal

Yeah I mean it’s a tough situation. Have you been looking for your own place? Because at the end of the day, and you know this assuming your tag is correct, there is nothing like meeting people in person and making that connection there - even if the person sympathizes with your situation and sees where you’re coming from it could still leave you at a disadvantage to candidates who are meeting him in person. As a slight, somewhat applicable caveat, there are high up bankers at my shop that are saying how important it is to meet with clients in person (if the clients are willing and able) and how they are highly appreciative of it.

So if I were you, I would meet with the person somewhere that isn’t busy and take proper precautions, and then quarantine yourself, whether that be in the house you’re staying, or find a place to live.

Authored by: Certified Investment Banking Professional - 1st Year AssociateCertified Investment Banking Pro

Black Jack

Mentor

Human

Most Helpful

I would just say you’re living with your grandfather or relative who is old and isn’t well, so being a bit extra cautious and would love to meet in person when things calm down a bit.

I think people are willing to be pretty understanding during this time, particularly in a case like yours, so I wouldn’t stress about it too much.

Authored by: Certified Private Equity Professional - Vice PresidentCertified Private Equity Pro

plantpot

Senior Baboon

Hi XYZ,

Thanks for the offer to meet up. I will have to respectfully decline at this stage.

I am currently living with a family member who is at-risk and with everything going on, we are taking every precaution just to be safe.

Would it be possible to do a phone/zoom chat instead? I will be free at XYZ time on Mon/Tue/Wed.

regards,

Your name

rickle

Human

"I would love to meet with you. My challenge is, however, X, and I can't risk putting him in that situation. Is there any way we could do a zoom meeting or speak on the phone. When things calm down I can then follow up in person. If that works for you, let me know some days and times and I will be happy to work around your schedule."

Authored by: Certified Investment Advisor Professional - PrincipalCertified Investment Advisor Pro

Aaleon

Senior Gorilla

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