When it's a Coffee, Is It an Interview?

Having a “coffee meeting” with candidates is a common practice in recruitment, but it can raise many questions for the candidate: “What should I expect? Is this a real interview? How is it different from a regular interview? Can I pass or fail a coffee meeting?”

Unless a company regularly uses a café for interviews, a coffee meeting often serves a different purpose. Generally, the interviewer wants to get to know the candidate as a person, understanding their mindset and personality in a more relaxed setting. While there might be a specific job in mind, the informal atmosphere is a deliberate choice to gauge personal qualities.

Candidates should treat these meetings with the same seriousness as a formal interview. Preparation is key. Here are the five main types of coffee meetings in recruitment:

1. Anticipated Vacancy: No job available yet, but one is expected soon. This is a preliminary interview where the interviewer hopes you’ll be a good fit.

2. Unique Skills: No current job, but the candidate has rare skills. Smart companies meet potential candidates to explore opportunities.

3. CEO/Manager Introduction: Mid-to-late recruitment stage to get another opinion. You are being assessed, so be prepared.

4. Pre-Offer: Final assessment before a job offer, focusing on cultural fit. It’s a chance to let your guard down slightly while remaining professional.

5. Pre-Start: After accepting the job, meeting with your manager to discuss initial expectations. It’s an opportunity to strengthen the good impression you’ve already made.

Etiquette Tips:

- Order a drink (coffee, tea) to show good manners as a guest.

- Avoid eating food to keep the conversation smooth and neat.

Treat these meetings as formal interviews, presenting your best self. For more information, visit the Java Sunrise Coffee.