The unofficial guide to navigating coffee chats as a law student
To coffee chat or not to coffee chat, that is the question many law students grapple with when investigating the ins and outs of job recruits. Students often hear that these informal meetings with lawyers can be vital to building connections and gaining insights into the field. However, students have succeeded with and without these meetings, colloquially known as “coffee chats.” This now brings me to the question: are coffee chats truly necessary for success, or is a strong academic performance—or perhaps even luck—enough?
The answer to that question should come as no surprise; there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to success, whatever success means anyway. Many students secure summer jobs purely based on a stellar transcript and relevant experience, while others land jobs through a blend of coffee chats and personality. Most students, however, would probably benefit from a combination of academics and a moderate amount of coffee chats with the lawyers at the firms in which they are truly interested.
To Coffee Chat
Coffee chats offer students a great opportunity to connect with practicing lawyers and uncover insights into the firm and specific practice areas. These meetings are often initiated by a quick and friendly email from the student. I find that a majority of lawyers are more than willing to share their experiences and provide advice. Some lawyers, if you are lucky enough, will even pass on your resume and cover letter to the hiring team and help you secure an interview or two.
Students stand to benefit the most when they ask specific questions. Engaging with lawyers can also lead to mentorship opportunities, which can be incredibly beneficial for personal and professional development. And for the introverts out there, coffee chats can potentially help you develop your communication skills and break out of your shell.
How to Coffee Chat
While coffee chats can be helpful and undoubtedly stressful, it is important to approach them with the right mindset. I have compiled a short and hopefully useful list of things students may want to keep in mind.
- Be Prepared: do your homework on the person you’re coffee chatting with. Research their background, current practice area, and any recent achievements. See if you have anything in common since it may be a perfect way to break the ice.
- Set Clear Goals: know what you want to achieve from the coffee chat. Whether it’s gaining insights into a specific practice area, learning about a firm’s culture, or asking about the hiring process, having clear objectives can help guide your discussion.
- Follow Up: after the meeting, it doesn’t hurt to send a thank-you note expressing your appreciation for their time and insights. This simple gesture can leave a positive impression and help keep the lines of communication open for future interactions.
TLDR: The Coffee Chat Shortcut
While coffee chats can provide valuable insights, connections, and perhaps an interview or two, they are certainly not the be-all and end-all. Oftentimes, they are most effective when backed by solid transcripts and experiences.
As a quick disclaimer, the path to success is not a straightforward one. Some students will thrive off of strong academic standing, while others will find that coffee chats significantly enhance their chances of landing a job. Most students will find it effective to strike a balance—prioritizing school and extracurriculars while also engaging in meaningful networking opportunities. Ultimately, however, it comes down to what you feel is best for you. All that said, wishing you all the best in your law school endeavors!