Why it’s time to get shot of coffee meetings at work

Let’s face it—coffee meetings have become a staple of the nine-to-five office environment, but is it possible they’re actually getting in the way of productive work? As we increasingly seek ways to work smarter, not harder, it’s time to ditch the coffee meeting and find a more efficient way to communicate in the workplace. In this article, we discuss the benefits of finding alternate solutions to coffee meetings and the potentially improved working environment that doing so can create.

1. The Problem With Coffee Meetings

Coffee meetings are ubiquitous in the working world: from initial introductions, to developing relationships, to resolving disputes. As convenient as they may be, there are drawbacks to both parties involved.

• Time Commitment – From figuring out a mutual time to meet, to waiting for brews to steep and baristas to serve, the time spent getting to the main point of the meeting is often longer than necessary.
• Distractions – In a regular office setting, it may be easier to focus and understand what the other person is saying, but a bustling cafe filled with activities makes it difficult to listen effectively.
• Payment – Who pays for the drinks? How much does one person pay for the other? Is the meeting ‘on the company’ or for a specific individual? What about after hours meetings? These are questions that complicate an already high-pressure interaction.

Coffee meetings between co-workers should also be facilitated by an air of mutual understanding and respect. The privacy of these smaller meetings can often be taken advantage of. All of these concerns should always be taken into consideration before partaking in a coffee meeting.

2. Re-Evaluating the Workplace Ritual

Nowadays, workplaces are trying to re-evaluate their inner practices and routines in ways that allow a more efficient and equitable work environment. It is no secret that modern work environments need to adjust how they interact with employees, and their rituals are a great starting point.

Employers are trying to restructure the way they go about communicating. Staff meetings, for example, are being used in more meaningful ways that encourage collaboration and productivity. Managers are also introducing a process of recognizing team member achievements and rewarding them for their efforts. Additionally, workplace rituals are being used to emphasize the organization’s goals and values, ensuring everyone is on the same page.

• Encouraging Collaboration: Open tables and stand-up meeting are being used, allowing for more in-depth conversations that allow for various inputs or ideas to be heard.
• Serving Refreshments: Depending on the culture, the workplace can provide beverages or snacks during staff meetings, crafting sessions, or any other occasion that requires employee involvement.
• Promoting Company Culture: Employers often use team building activities as a way to encourage unity, knowledge-sharing, and a greater understanding of each other’s roles in the organization.

3. Alternatives to Coffee Meetings

Business meetings are the lifeblood of startups and existing businesses, providing the opportunity to learn more, create relationships and build ideas. Coffee meetings are considered a classic piece of business protocol, but they aren’t always the best option. Here are several alternative business meeting ideas.

• Virtual Meeters: Video conferencing and online sessions are becoming more popular as a convenient, cost-effective way to conduct business meetings and are also enabling many companies to expand into new markets. No matter the size or location of the business, virtual meetings can help connect participants from anywhere in the world.
• The ‘Mixer’: The mixer meeting is perfect for networking and getting to know the people and businesses around you. This is a great way to branch out and find new partners, as well as to interact with others in the industry and make connections.
• Retreats: Retreats offer a change of scenery from the conference room and are an ideal way to get to know people from different parts of the world. Reward hard-working employees and build relationships with clients while getting away from the office.
• Outdoor Gatherings: Outdoor gatherings offer an exciting way to collaborate and build relationships, while also taking advantage of some of the most beautiful natural settings. Whether it’s a picnic, a camping trip or a hike, this is an effective way to break away from the monotony of the office.

Who says business has to be boring? With the right approach and alternative meeting ideas, you can switch up your routine and ensure the success of your business. With the right venues, you can be sure to make a lasting impression that ensures everyone walks away from the meeting feeling connected and energized.

4. Making the Change

When you want to make a change in your life, the idea can be both exciting and daunting. But the good news is that stepping out of your comfort zone doesn’t have to be a soul-shattering experience.

You can make change easier on yourself by:

• Making small, steady steps.
• Focusing on one change at a time.
• Reaching out to others who have gone through the same transition.
• Celebrating your successes, no matter how small.
• Understanding that change takes time.

With focus and a willingness to explore, you can make the changes you want for a better life. Take a breath, seek out the support you need and make changes that will bring you closer to where you want to be.

While they may offer moments of respite, it’s time to acknowledge that coffee meetings in the workplace can often be a waste of valuable resources. These potential opportunities to help colleagues bond, innovate and collaborate more effectively can be replaced with other, more productive ways of working together. See how ditching the coffee break can make a real difference in the way your team unites and works.