FluffyBanana
FluffyBanana

Cracking the Coffee Chat Code in India: Networking Tips That Work

Networking in India is a whole new game compared to the US. While coffee chats can work, they need a culturally tailored approach. If LinkedIn messages aren’t landing or conversations feel stuck, here’s how to pivot.

Why It’s Different in India

1- Relationship-Driven: Trust and personal referrals matter more than cold outreach.

2-Time Constraints: Professionals often juggle packed schedules, making informal chats less common.

Pro Tips for Coffee Chats

Warm Introductions: Leverage mutual connections for referrals.

Be Specific: Clearly state why you’re reaching out—make it personal and relevant.

Offer Value: Share insights or genuine compliments to create a two-way exchange.

Go Virtual: Suggest a 15-minute call if a physical meet-up feels impractical.

Level Up Your Chats

Start with Their Journey: Ask about their career path to build rapport.

Subtle Job Leads: Seek advice instead of directly asking for openings.

Request Referrals Gracefully: Say, “If you feel my background aligns, I’d love an introduction to others who might share insights.”

Keep It Going Send a thank-you note highlighting key takeaways. Maintain the relationship with periodic updates. In India, genuine connections are key. Adapt your style, focus on building trust, and watch your network grow. Got tips? Drop them below!

29d ago
App Promo
No comments yet

You're early. There are no comments yet.

Be the first to comment.

Discover more
Curated from across
Business Roles
by WigglyDonutGrowth Manager

Do Coffee Chats work in India?

I've been setting up these coffee chats with industry pros as part of my networking game in the US. Now, back in India and I was wondering if they even work here? No one responded to me on LinkedIn here.

Still got some positive vibes, ...

1.7K
Business Roles
by PrancingDonutWipro

Networking @ workplace

Networking isn't about collecting contacts; it's about building relationships. The key? Give before you take. Share insights, offer help, and engage genuinely—people remember those who add value.

Here’s how to make networking less painf...

Software Engineers
by WobblyBurritoSoftware Engineer

Indian SDEs will do all DSA and System Design chatter but cannot create any real value

Indian SDEs on LinkedIn & Twitter are some of the worst engineers you will ever find across the real world. Their typical value lies around:

  • Cracking a FAANG/MAANG or Product company.
  • Make an announcement on LinkedIn & Twitter an...
Top comments
user

Bhabis? Lmao. Good rant 👍🏻

user

A big reason for that is non-Indian SDEs choose computer science because they are passionate about it. A great deal o...

user

Bro woke up and decided to speak facts. Everything on point. Screw these bhaiyya didis, poora scene pollute kr rakha ...

Bangalore
by DerpyBurritoData Scientist

Remote job folks: how do you network and how do you deal with loneliness

I work as a data scientist in a remote setting. I meet my team once a quarter. Here in Bangalore all my friends and my wife have work from office so I end up getting too lonely working from home. Also, this has shrinked my network compar...

Top comments
user

Look on the positive side. You have a job which is remote.

user

I am on the same boat as you. I won't saybim struggling with loneliness but I'm really missing out on networking, and...