How to Make an Investment Banking Coffee Chat Feel Like a Conversation

The best coffee chats are fluid conversations, not interviews where you mechanically work through a list of questions. By preparing themes, listening closely, and building on the banker’s answers, you can create a more natural interaction while still learning what you need to know.

Author: Michael Harris Updated 4 min read

Prepare topics, not a script

Preparation matters, but overpreparing individual questions can make you sound rehearsed. Instead, choose three or four topics you want to explore, such as the banker’s career path, the group’s work, junior responsibilities, or recruiting advice. Then prepare one strong opening question for each topic.

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