(Not) Just a Cup of Coffee

Never underestimate the power of a cup of coffee and a chat.

Some of the most meaningful relationships — professional and personal — don’t start in a conference room or through a formal introduction. They start over a cup of coffee, a casual conversation, or an intentional moment to slow down and connect.

Too often, we treat connection as something we do when we need something: a donor to contribute, a client to sign on, a partner to collaborate, or a friend to lend support. But true relationship building happens when we show up without an agenda. When we take the time to meet, listen, ask questions, and share simply because we value the person across the table.

When connection only happens out of convenience or need, it stops being a relationship and starts being a request.

Go when you don’t need anything. 

That’s when trust is built. That’s when people remember you. That’s when real collaboration starts to take shape.

And while it’s easy to feel “too busy,” relationship building doesn’t always require adding more to your calendar — it just requires intention.

Make every trip count.

Headed out of town for a meeting or conference? Look up who lives nearby. Send a quick note to say, “Hey, I’ll be in your area — want to grab a coffee or a drink?” Got a doctor’s appointment in the town over? Ask a colleague to grab lunch after. You never know what ideas might spark or what connections might resurface.

At the end of the day, people need people.

Every conversation is a chance to learn, to share, to appreciate, to be memorable — not because of what you say, but because of how you make others feel seen, heard, and valued.

So, the next time you think, “We should catch up some time,” don’t just think it. Reach out. Set the date. Make the coffee happen.

Because sometimes, that simple cup of coffee can be the start of something much bigger.