How to: Pick a Place to have Coffee

Post Pandemic I’ve been trying to get back into the habit of having face to face coffees – at least sometimes. However, between moving jobs and coffee shops closing and relocating etc I’ve had to come up with some new options for my coffee meetings. Particularly, as my own office is not great for hosting coffee meetings. I’ve now started coming up with a list of new venues for coffee meetings.

I’ve found that there are a few options for hosting coffee meetings including:

1. The local coffee shops: it is always good to know your local coffee shops (and the local options near the person you are meeting for coffee). If you are the one asking for a coffee meeting, choose a place nearer to the person you are meeting with.
2. Coffee shops with outdoor seating: Many coffee shops have started to offer outdoor seating as an option for customers. You can check with your local coffee shops to see if this is an option for your meetings.
3. Outdoor coffee meetings: If the weather permits, you can arrange to meet someone for coffee at a park or other outdoor location. This can be a great way to enjoy the fresh air while still having a face-to-face meeting.
4. Rent a private meeting space: If you are looking for a more professional setting, you can consider renting a private meeting space at a co-working facility or business centre.

Ultimately the most important thing is to communicate clearly with the person you are meeting and make sure you’re both comfortable with the chosen location.

When choosing a location you should also consider the following:

• Time of day: try to meet up during off-peak restaurant or café hours. If you are meeting before work or at lunch time, this should be taken into account when choosing a location.

• Noise level: You don’t want to be yelling to hear the other person.

• Seating: Pick somewhere with ample seating and you feel comfortable that you will be able to get a table and somewhere not too crowded or cramped. You want to feel relaxed and comfortable.

It’s important to choose a place that is comfortable and conducive to conversation, while also being convenient and easy to get to for both parties.

Additionally, it’s also important to consider the atmosphere of the location. Some people may prefer a more professional or upscale atmosphere, while others may prefer a more casual or relaxed atmosphere. It’s important to choose a location that is appropriate for the purpose of the meeting.

Further Reading:

• Set up a Coffee Date
• Catch up coffee? Plan your conversation
• Internal Networking: Maximising a Coffee Meeting