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Is the J.P. Morgan coffee chat part of candidate screening?

Hi! I recently participated in a virtual coffee chat hosted by J.P. Morgan through one of their official recruiting events. Does anyone know if these chats are part of the actual screening process? I tried to prepare well, but my internet cut out briefly in the middle of the conversation. I rejoined quickly, but now I’m worried it may have left a bad impression.

Do these chats inform interview decisions in any formal way?  Would really appreciate any insight from people who’ve gone through the process or work at JPM.

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Rita
Coach
on May 06, 2025
Excel in Finance | FREE 15 Minutes Intro Call | Personalised Preparation

Hi! ☺️ In my experience, J.P. Morgan coffee chats are more informal and not officially part of the screening process. They’re meant to help you learn more about the firm and ask questions. Of course, making a good impression can help, but it’s not a formal interview.

As for the brief internet issue, don’t worry. These things happen, especially in virtual settings. As long as you stayed professional and rejoined quickly, it’s unlikely to have left a bad impression.

Natalie
Coach
on May 16, 2025
Ex-Investment Banker | Former Deloitte & Grant Thornton | Coaching Finance Candidates to Ace Interviews & Land Top Roles

Hey, there! 

That's a really good question, and it's natural to feel a bit anxious after that internet hiccup – been there! Generally speaking, those initial coffee chats hosted by J.P. Morgan during recruiting events are more about getting to know candidates in a less formal setting and providing information about the firm and different roles. They're a chance for you to ask questions and for them to get a feel for your personality and interest.

While these chats might not be a formal "interview" in the traditional sense with a strict evaluation rubric, they absolutely can play a role in the overall impression you make. Recruiters and team members are still noting who they connect with and who demonstrates genuine interest and asks thoughtful questions. So, while that brief internet issue likely wasn't a dealbreaker (especially since you rejoined quickly!), it's always good to aim for a solid connection. Think of it as one piece of the puzzle. Keep showcasing your enthusiasm and qualifications in the subsequent steps of the process!

Nitesh
Coach
edited on May 18, 2025
9+ yrs of work ex in finance/consulting - Barclays/ x-Citi. 500+ hrs coaching exp. MBA IIM Ahmedabad, Engg IIT Kharagpur

Hey There!

Totally get where you’re coming from: tech hiccups during these things always feel worse than they probably are. The good news is that coffee chats at J.P. Morgan, especially those tied to recruiting events, are typically more informal and meant to give you exposure to the firm and its people. They're a great chance to ask smart questions, learn more about the roles, and show genuine interest, but they aren’t usually a make-or-break part of the screening process.

People understand that tech issues happen, especially during virtual events. If you rejoined quickly and kept the conversation going, it’s unlikely that it left a bad impression. These chats are more about building relationships and giving both sides a feel for fit rather than assessing you the way an interview would.

If it’s still on your mind, a quick follow-up message thanking them and maybe referencing something you discussed can leave a positive note and show you’re engaged.

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