Where is the Best Place to Meet with Clients?

[xrac]

In a coffee shop

Panera is a popular spot.

 

[yorkriver1]

Yep, Panera, Starbucks/stand alone or in Target (just did a full appointment in the long, deserted side seating area of a Target Starbucks this week), or IHop and the occasional restaurant of a client.
Panera and Ihop are good for some clients who aren't as comfortable at Starbucks. Tables are larger, too.
Note: I don't have the laptop screen that makes it easy to see out on the patio, so much as we might want to be outside, it usually doesn't work.
I find that phone can work when we have a more urgent need and awkward time availability, like clients who work into evening.
Generally, must see some in person if the carrier requires paper signature.
Those who are older, always see in person.
Not that I won't someday branch into phone/video chat and do multi-state work.

 

[Robzrisk]

I use my sports club lounge - it is neutral so they do not feel intimidated in any way, and it offers a luxurious but friendly ambiance, with a cappuccino thrown in :-) (I am a Risk Engineer in the Commercial and Corporate Property & Casualty arena)

 

[vic120]

Best most productive & efficient use of my time and customer service is to meet clients & prospects on the phone and internet, Not in person or face to face

Now I know that will depend on you line of Buis, I do medicare Ins Supp , Advantage and some FE

 

[Matthew King]

Their home, if we're talking personal planning.

Their business, if we're talking about business planning.

I can learn much more about a prospect in their home or business than I possibly ever could anywhere else.

It's also more important to me that THEY have their information available, than for me to have every single piece of product or research information available to me during an appointment.

I have to agree with DHK here. Being able to openly observe your client's home or business can tell you a lot about them. What kind of person they are, neat and clean, messy and unorganized. Not to mention if the client needs anything they most likely have it in their home or business. Not on person at the local cafe.

I would also like to state that an atmosphere is extremely important as well. Establishing rapport and if the client is more comfortable then the sale is easier on you.