Coffee meetings let us network, get out of the office, and enjoy a good cup of coffee (or other warm beverage). They bring an invigorating focus back to the mundane meeting, but are we getting the most from our shared time over this beloved brew?

To celebrate the addition of Caribou Coffee to Kiind’s marketplace, I explored the art of meeting for coffee. Here are three tips I discovered that can help us make the most of these caffeinated connections:

Coffee meetings are short; take notes.

Coffee meetings are usually 30 minutes long – just enough time to enjoy your coffee and a quick discussion.  Make some key notes about your conversation to reflect on afterwards. If you’re meeting to get help or advice on a project, this is especially important. If I’ve learned amything thing from not taking notes, I’m forgetful. So don’t forget your notebook.

Bring a clear focus to the meeting.

Without a clear discussion topic, however, your notes are going to be scattered and less useful. When requesting a meeting, be upfront: “I’d like to meet to discuss X and tell you about my experience with Y.” Exchanging experiences is great for creating a meaningful coffee meeting. This will keep you focused on the conversation and within the 30 minute time window.

In Inc. Magazine’s How 50 Cups of Coffee Can Change Your Life, they highlight that focused networking is beneficial for receiving advice on moving forward. Clear focus will help both parties feel like the meeting was productive and not a waste of time or coffee.

Follow up.

Don’t forget the mantra of the meeting loop – ask for a meeting, meet, follow up. Perhaps you have a quick question about a topic that was discussed or some extra information that you’d like to share; a quick note back is a good way to tie up loose ends (if there are any).

Ultimately, take the time to meet with someone. Be sure to have a focus and take notes. And follow-up, thank them again for meeting with you for coffee.

 

Image from www.sxu.hu