How matches and likes work
Last updated: June 22, 2026
More in Getting started+
A match is how two people connect on Coffee After Work. It's simple: when you both like each other, you match — and only then can you start a conversation.
Making a match
Like someone in Spark or Discover. If they like you back, it's a match and a new conversation opens in your Chat tab so you can say hello. If they don't, nothing happens and they aren't told you liked them.
Seeing who liked you
People who have already liked you appear in your Likes. Liking one of them back is an instant match. Seeing exactly who liked you is a Premium feature.
Why am I not getting matches?
Add several clear photos and complete your profile — a fuller, verified profile is shown to more people and gets more likes. It also helps to widen your Discovery Preferences (age range and distance). Once you match, here's how messaging works.