If someone reached out intentionally, for coffee asking about the my role, do you think it could be related to an opportunity?

15 Comments

1. AnonymousDecember 20,2025 at 4:31PM UTC

   Why not ask them directly before the inception of the meeting what made them reach out to you, why you, and what do they hope to get from the meeting. Then you can go in prepared and not blindsided by something you do not want. Additionally, be super careful to read your company handbook about disclosing information and be cagey about what you share as you never know what someones motives are behind the scenes and you don't want something to smack back at you after you meet.

   If you are indeed considering a move or change be sure to remember you are the buyer and they reached out to you. Find out about the role in detail before you share any level of interest in moving on.

2. AnonymousDecember 21,2025 at 3:18AM UTC

   I am usually pretty diplomatic and cautious about what I share related to my work. It is not highly confidential either as we report publically. Id prefer to keep it casual for now and not directly ask. I would be more inclined to ask if I did not know them from my network.

   Good point about framing it as I am the buyer.

3. Joycelyn M. SiameDecember 20,2025 at 5:05PM UTC

   I just say go to the meeting and see what happens. DOn't put all of you eggs in one basket. They could nbe networking for something as well. However, if there is some hanky panky reason why they ask, end the meeting as soon as you can and bow out gracefully, to ensure no professional boundaries are being crossed.

4. AnonymousDecember 21,2025 at 3:14AM UTC

   I dont think its for an inappropriate reason as I get the vibe they try to operate ethically. I will definitely go and see what happens... I am not currently looking but I am open to new opportunities in the near future so I am intentionally going to network more in the coming year and this supports that.

5. Alexis GladstoneDecember 21,2025 at 1:59PM UTC

   They may just be someone who takes networking seriously. They like to build relationships so they know who they can help, refer, and rely on in the future.

6. AnonymousDecember 21,2025 at 2:24PM UTC

   Sounds like they want to do a business development pitch & have it wrapped up in a coffee invite.

7. Joyce Breitweiser HallDecember 21,2025 at 4:42PM UTC

   I would like to encourage you to go with an open mind, but also a clear view of what you might like to get out of the meeting. This person appears to want something from you, what would you like in exchange? More networking opportunities? Information about industry trends? Mentoring advice? All of the above?

   For example, I had an unexpected visit from a colleague who wanted to make sure I understood some data I had received, data that informs decisions I make. This person is not someone I regularly see and I was very surprised by their visit.

   I listened to their information and then started a conversation about their department. I wanted to know their opinion of their boss and colleagues because I have some responsibility and oversight there, but I am not in the chain of command. I also asked for information about an incident that I could not get official information about. I got unofficial information that I was unlikely to hear elsewhere.

   In my opinion, you may have an opportunity that could be important to your career. I hope you use it to your advantage.

8. LizzieDecember 26,2025 at 1:19PM UTC

   Excellent advice. You’ve broadened my perspective as well, so thank you Joyce.

9. AnonymousDecember 21,2025 at 5:49PM UTC

   So? Happens all the time. Networking is always good. Have fun.

10. AnonymousDecember 21,2025 at 11:18PM UTC

    most relevant response on this thread

11. AnonymousDecember 22,2025 at 3:38AM UTC

    It's called networking.

12. AnonymousDecember 22,2025 at 2:02PM UTC

    Could be anything but most likely networking. They either want to learn more about you, your company, or your role.

    I recently advised a mentee to reach out to people with the job they are aspiring to to gather information on the path and skills needed.

13. AnonymousDecember 24,2025 at 8:52AM UTC

    Most likely an informational interview for their career path.

14. Tiana MumfordDecember 26,2025 at 1:32PM UTC

    Greetings

    It could be or numerous reasons .There are a lot of people on LinkedIn that want to connect . I typically ask them questions to not waste my time or their time. You could always casually ask what it is pertaining . As long as it doesn’t conflict with your company’s rules if they have any far as meeting with vendors . Just cover your own self.

15. T CHDecember 27,2025 at 10:23PM UTC

    Ive been in the business world for over 4 decades.

    Ah, coffee. The universal euphemism. People will tell you it’s networking, but let’s be honest - coffee is almost always a date in disguise. And dates, my dear, are rarely about professional synergy. They’re about leverage. He wants something. He always does.

    Now, I’ll hazard a guess - he’s a man, you’re a woman. Men have become remarkably adept at trolling the digital seas, casting their nets for the right fish. LinkedIn, email, Zoom… those are perfectly respectable channels for professional discourse. But coffee? That’s bait.

    And don’t be lulled by résumés or lofty titles. Monsters wear suits, too. Ted Bundy had a wife and children, remember? Evil doesn’t announce itself with a neon sign.

    So, my advice? Decline the latte. Keep it online, keep it professional, keep it safe. If he truly wants to ‘network,’ he’ll manage just fine over a phone call or a Zoom meeting. If not… well, you’ve just saved yourself from becoming the catch of the day.