Whether you’re a devoted coffee connoisseur or have a penchant for herbal tea, we’re all familiar with coffee dates, coffee chats and coffee catch ups. It’s been engrained in our kiwi psyche since the birth of the flat white in the ‘80s and the café culture boom that followed. Meeting over coffee has become a beloved ritual for work and leisure.
Here are 4 reasons to advocate for your next meeting to be over a coffee.
Connection and trust Connection and trust A coffee catch up isn’t just about the drink itself; it’s a shared experience that fosters connection. Just remembering a colleague’s usual order or chatting in a relaxed setting can make people feel at ease. Whether it's networking gathering, a client meeting or a one-on-one session, this ritual can break down barriers and encourage an open form of communication, creating deeper connections.
Creativity Creativity Coffee shops are known for their relaxed ambiance, creating an environment that naturally encourages creativity and idea-sharing. The casual atmosphere, combined with the ritual of enjoying a favourite drink, often makes it easier for people to brainstorm, collaborate, and exchange innovative ideas.
Breaking down barriers Breaking down barriers One of the best things about meeting over coffee is how it levels the playing field. Unlike formal office meetings, coffee gatherings remove hierarchical barriers, allowing people to engage on more equal terms. It can feel more like a friendly, two-way conversation. It’s also a great way to break down the generational barrier through a shared experience. This relaxed setting can be a game-changer for interviews, setting the stage for a genuine, open exchange that can open doors and lead to unexpected opportunities.
Mini-escape
Mini-escape
Change is as good as a holiday! Stepping away from routine and leaving the usual workspace, even briefly, can help people recharge. This “mini-escape” will help clear the head and create space for genuine conversation.
Interesting fact: There’s a term for places that aren’t home or work but still play a huge role in our social lives, “Third Places.” Cafés are classic examples of these neutral spaces where people from all walks of life can come together to relax, connect, and feel part of a community. Whether it’s catching up with friends, meeting new faces, or just soaking in the vibe, coffee shops give us a place other than home and work where we feel a sense of belonging.
At SJS, we’re all about bridging the gap between employers and students, sparking connections that have the potential to grow into something great. You never know when a casual coffee chat could be the catalyst for your next standout hire, the inspiration behind a fresh, innovative idea, or the foundation of a successful working relationship. So, as you reach for that next cup with a friend, interviewee, client or colleague, what kind of connection are you hoping to spark?