BTW , I don't give this advice nonchalantly. Just recently I started a new business myself in my local city after being remote for many years. I reached out to friends who owned local businesses and I met them for coffee.

So this same thing I did in 2013, also worked in 2025. And if I have a new business idea or something in 5 years, I'll do it again.

There are a couple of things to do: 1. Listen.

It's not a job interview. You're not there to pitch yourself. Listen. Actively listen. Ask questions. "why did you do that?" "how did that work out?"

2. Always follow up.

Every single person I met with, I very quickly in the next day emailed them or messaged them. I thanked them very personally. not just "thanks for meeting". I recollected some piece of advice, or story point. I also had the chance to ask if there was anyone they could think of that I should talk to. Here, not everyone did this. If it's a stranger, they might not be ready to recommend you, or recommend you talk to someone. But if something came up naturally in the conversation. then by all means ask "oh you mentioned this person did something interesting, can you introduce me to hear their story?"

If you’re applying for jobs make sure you don’t come across as entitled, a job might be menial but describe it as such to a future employer and you won’t be considered for anything.