Arriving Early for a Meeting at a Coffee Shop: What to Order and When

Deciding whether to order something for yourself or wait for the other party can be a challenging choice when you arrive early for a meeting at a coffee shop. This decision depends on various factors, including your personal preferences, the type of meeting, and the context. Below are some considerations that can help you make the best choice.

Choose What Makes You Most Comfortable

Whether or not to order something while you wait is a personal choice that can reflect your comfort level and the importance of the meeting. Here are a few scenarios to consider:

Order Something:
If you are hungry or thirsty, ordering something can make you feel more relaxed and comfortable. This can also demonstrate that you value your own well-being, showing that you are a considerate individual. Wait:
If you prefer to wait for the other party, it can be seen as courteous, especially if you're unsure whether they would like to order together. This can also show that you value their time and presence. Combination:
You could also opt for a small, light order, such as a coffee or tea, to enjoy while you wait. This shows that you have thought about your own needs while still being considerate of the other person's time.

Ordering and Considerations

When deciding to order, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some guidelines that can help you make a more informed decision:

Ordering with Consideration

It is generally respectful and polite to order your coffee in advance. Keeping another person waiting unnecessarily can be seen as disrespectful, and you should inform them in advance if you are significantly early. However, if it is just a short wait, you should let the other person order as well. A polite remark like, 'I've ordered a drink, you can order one too if you'd like,' can be appropriate.

Eat or Wait?

The timing of your order is equally important. Factors such as the size of your order and your proximity to the other party play a crucial role:

When you are early enough, you are likely to finish your item before the other person gets there. In that case, you can enjoy your order. If you are likely to start sipping your coffee or eating your food just as the other person arrives, it's alright to go ahead and enjoy it. However, be cautious about being halfway through a meal or a long drink when the other person arrives. This can be uncomfortable for everyone involved.

For food, it's especially important to consider the type of item you're ordering. A slice of cake might be acceptable, but a half-eaten sandwich or soup might not. Make sure you can realistically finish the food before the other person arrives. Remember, you are responsible for the cost of your order since you placed it at the counter.

Director Called, You Decide

If you were the one who called the meeting, you have the right to order something for yourself. This demonstrates that you value your own comfort and the importance of the meeting. However, if it was your boss or a higher authority who called the meeting, it's often up to your discretion. If you choose not to order, you can politely decline the waiter's offer with an explanation similar to: 'I was called here by my boss and I'm just waiting for him,' even if you're taking up space.

In conclusion, the decision to order or wait for something at an early arrival to a meeting in a coffee shop revolves around your personal comfort, courtesy, and the dynamics of the situation. By considering these factors, you can ensure that you make the best choice for the meeting and maintain a positive relationship with your colleagues or superiors.