Get Out Of The Office

Best Places for Meetings Outside the Office

Traditionally, the office has always been the best place to have meetings with clients. While the environment is conducive to conducting business, it can also be helpful for employees to get out and away every once in a while. Plus, offices can feel so formal. If you are looking for a place that is more relaxed, you might consider meeting outside the office.

In reality, you could meet with your clients anywhere you want. However, there are some places that are better than others. Below are some of the best places for meetings outside the office that you should consider.

The Streets

It has been shown that walking is a great way to boost people’s creativity and productivity. Walking and having a meeting can be a great way to encourage new ideas, take in some new sights, and get some exercise all at the same time. This type of meeting will work best if you don’t have to show anything on your computer or through paperwork. It will be difficult to walk and do that at the same time.

A Park

There are so many benefits to being outside, including getting some fresh air and taking in some vitamin D from the sun. Going to a park to conduct a meeting can also boost you and your client’s morale. Meeting at a park is probably best done when the weather isn’t too cold. You don’t want to be shivering, as this may make it difficult to focus on the topic. You should also consider finding a park with a shelter in case it starts raining. That way, you’ll still be protected.

The Golf Course or Gym

These are definitely unconventional places to take a client, but they are growing in popularity. There has been an increase in the desire for people to be active, and with only so many hours in a day, they find that multi-tasking is the best way to get everything done. In addition, having a meeting on the golf course or in a gym promotes energy and positivity, so it’s a great place to conduct business and feel good.

At a Retreat

Going to a retreat for a day or longer has a relaxing atmosphere, but there’s also a sense that there are no distractions, which means that people can focus on business. Of course, to ensure that everyone stays focused, it’s a good idea to have clear expectations about what tasks you want to accomplish. Having meetings at a retreat can also be a great way to strengthen the relationships between employees and clients.

Online

If your client is in another city or part of the world, then talking online might be the only way to get in contact with them. However, even if they are in the same city, this can still be a great way to connect. It allows both you and them to talk where it is convenient.

Maybe you have to stay home with a sick kid, or you are running errands. It doesn’t take long to get on a computer or phone to have a quick chat. This can ensure that you are able to get on with your day but still take care of business. It can make staying in contact so much easier.

A Coffee Shop or Bar

If you are looking for a super casual place to have a meeting, you might consider a coffee shop or a bar. This will allow both you and your client a chance to unwind and relax. It won’t feel as formal as being in an office setting, so it may open up conversations and allow the flow of new and innovative ideas.

Either one of these places can also reduce stress. If you meet at an office, there may be an unspoken expectation that both parties should act in a certain way. That can be reduced or eliminated by meeting in one of these areas. It’s a good idea not to get too relaxed, however. After all, you are still conducting business.

Some Considerations

Having a meeting outside an office setting is a great way to encourage creativity and productivity. It is also less formal and may make you and your clients more comfortable. However, you need to keep in mind that there are limitations to what you can do.

Depending on where you go, you may not be able to take extra materials with you. If you had planned on giving a PowerPoint presentation, that is going to be challenging if you are also playing golf. If you need to be connected to the internet, then a park may not give you the Wi-Fi needed for this task.

When it comes to deciding the best place outside the office to have a meeting, keep your needs in mind. This will help you find a space to successfully conduct business.