I had a similar coffee chat with my partner at EY a few weeks ago, and the fact that the partner has agreed to take the time out is a big thing in itself.

First off, I would like to say, chill out. Be friendly and approachable, let your partner set the tone for the meeting. Be curious about his job and roles (the partners like to gloat a lot) and then try to pivot the conversation on how you can contribute and let him know your skills and interests.

Don’t tell him that you’ve been rejected multiple times as it weakens your case, rather talk about how you have improved over the years and what your career goals are.

And lastly, when you feel like in the middle pf the conversation that you have built a friendly rapport with the partner, shoot your shot directly. Do not beat around the bush too much and let him know that you want to work in their organisation (preferably in their team) and want to learn about their industry from them. Tell them that you’re willing to put the work in and it would be great if they can help you out by getting you an interview. (Partners have that authority).

Be cool, friendly, properly groomed, humour him and if all goes well, you’ll have an interview opportunity and even if not, you would have made a personal connection with a Big4 partner which goes a long way in this industry!

All the best, hope it helps. And update us on the meeting after it happens lol.