Anything wrong with using Starbucks as meeting place with clients?

5 years 3 weeks ago #634106 by Jennifer Krueger
I'm not sure where to post this question, moderators if this is wrong place, please move.  Thank you.

So, what I would like to know is if you don't have an office, is there anything unprofessional or sketchy if I'm always meeting my clients at a Starbucks to conduct business for which I'll be paid for?  I always buy myself a coffee and offer to buy my clients a coffee, in case that matters.

I had another photographer tell me yesterday that this wasn't professional.  Once or twice is OK, but to continuously use Starbucks was wrong.  I argued the point as it's public space for their clients, and I'm not spending all day there, generally speaking, just an hour, maybe two hours at most.  I always buy something while there as well.  So, Starbucks is making money off me.  

Is this OK behavior? What do you think?

Please be brutally upfront with me, you won't hurt my feelings.   


Photo Comments
,
5 years 3 weeks ago #634168 by Mark T
First off, that isn't public space.  You are in Starbucks space.  Now moving forward, I don't see anything wrong with that. I know companies that will use lobby's of hotels as meeting spaces, while they aren't even staying at that hotel. 


Photo Comments
,
5 years 3 weeks ago #634192 by Carry
Not in my book.  I'll meet clients at a Starbucks as well.  Why not?


Photo Comments
,
5 years 3 weeks ago #634207 by Jennifer Krueger

Mark T wrote: First off, that isn't public space.  You are in Starbucks space.  Now moving forward, I don't see anything wrong with that. I know companies that will use lobby's of hotels as meeting spaces, while they aren't even staying at that hotel. 


Yes, wrong choice of words on my end.  Not public space, but common area for patrons would have been better words.  

:)


Photo Comments
,
5 years 2 weeks ago #634279 by ThatNikonGuy
It's my opinion that as long as you are buying something, and being respectful, you're OK.  Nothing wrong with what you are doing. 


Photo Comments
,
5 years 2 weeks ago #634383 by KENT MELTON
Not only have I met clients in Starbucks, I know and see so many others doing it too.  Starbucks is happy to be a meeting zone that brings people together.  


Photo Comments
,
5 years 2 weeks ago #634468 by Barbara Fite
Put me down as another faithful Starbucks fan and one who will use Starbucks for meeting with people.  Especially meeting for the first time.  

+1 Nothing wrong with it. 

Need more convincing, here's a page directly from Starbucks page:  stories.starbucks.com/stories/2018/no-of...eet-me-at-starbucks/


Photo Comments
,
5 years 2 weeks ago #634510 by coupe
The company I work for actually have the Asian franchise for Starbucks (as well as a few other American brands)
We have no problem whatsoever with people using our seating etc for conducting business, there is no difference with a customer sitting there for an hour and reading a paper while drinking coffee as opposed to a business meeting.
Id imagine it is the same with all starbucks outlets around the world


,
5 years 2 weeks ago #634619 by Pete Franko

coupe wrote: The company I work for actually have the Asian franchise for Starbucks (as well as a few other American brands)
We have no problem whatsoever with people using our seating etc for conducting business, there is no difference with a customer sitting there for an hour and reading a paper while drinking coffee as opposed to a business meeting.
Id imagine it is the same with all starbucks outlets around the world


Plus, having more people shown in these places creates social proof that makes more people consider coming in.  


Photo Comments
,
5 years 2 weeks ago #634710 by George Winters
Nothing at all, just buy a coffee or drink of some sort and you'll be welcomed.   


Photo Comments
,
5 years 2 weeks ago #634720 by Nikon Shooter
The only meetings I have at my location is when the client
wants to see if the studio will fit the need.

Otherwise, coffeeshops and parks or else is all good!

Light is free… capturing it is not!
Photo Comments
,
5 years 2 weeks ago #634783 by Ian Stone
Visit the Big Apple and you'll be surprised how many meetings you'll see taking place in Starbucks and other coffee shops.  I always meet clients in Starbucks to show my portfolio and sign contract.  


Photo Comments
,
5 years 2 weeks ago #634864 by Tim Dordeck
I meet clients, we have meet up group meetings there, and just about anything I can think of.  Matter of fact I'm meeting a colleague on Wednesday at a Starbucks after work!


Photo Comments
,
5 years 2 weeks ago #634966 by Chris Grimm
I meet 7 photographer friends every Saturday morning for coffee at local Starbucks.  To add to that, like so many others here, I have no problem meeting clients in Starbucks for meetings.  Business is business for Starbucks.  


Photo Comments
,

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Latest Reviews

The Leica SL2-S is an attractive, premium mirrorless camera with photo and video specs that are sure to impress. And with the legendary Leica name, you know this camera exudes quality!

Mar 26, 2024

The Sigma fp L is a compact full-frame camera with a 61-megapixel sensor, 4K video capabilities, in-body image stabilization, and weather-sealed construction. What’s not to like?!

Mar 19, 2024

The Canon 1DX Mark III is a big, burly professional camera packed with top-end features. Is it worth the investment in 2024? Find out in this detailed review!

Mar 04, 2024

In the OM-1 vs OM-5 debate, which camera comes out on top? Though they’re different cameras for different purposes, comparing them head to head clarifies which is best for your needs.

Mar 01, 2024

Forum Top Posters

Latest Articles

Time management is a critical skill to master when you’re a photographer. But how do you get the most out of the limited time you have? Check out this guide to learn a few tricks!

Mar 27, 2024

The Leica SL2-S is an attractive, premium mirrorless camera with photo and video specs that are sure to impress. And with the legendary Leica name, you know this camera exudes quality!

Mar 26, 2024

Opening a photography business means undertaking various photography marketing strategies to promote your work. But you don’t want to do the same old thing - try these unique ideas!

Mar 22, 2024

The Canon EOS 80D might be a few years old, but it’s nevertheless a quality camera to invest in as a beginner or enthusiast looking for a mid-range DSLR with tons of lens options.

Mar 22, 2024

Wedding consultations are a critical part of a wedding photography gig. It’s when you learn about the couple and their wants, and present them with how you will meet those desires.

Mar 22, 2024

If you're looking for the best metal print of 2023, you'll find it from Artbeat Studios. After months of testing, Artbeat Studios beat out the competition!

Mar 21, 2024

Getting the best video shots on your camera or smartphone requires you to understand the fundamentals of composition and video editing. It helps to have the appropriate gear, too!

Mar 20, 2024

It’s easy to lose your inspiration behind the lens, especially as a beginner. These creative photography projects can help inspire you to try new techniques and improve your photos.

Mar 20, 2024