This tip’s for small business owners. Possibly for freelancers or home office type businesspeople. Not having a space in your home office to meet clients is a limitation on having a work-at-home arrangement. But does this mean that it’s time to scope out some office spaces? Nope. It may not be worthwhile to up your spending. Besides, working at home saves you much money.

While most clients would only require you to show up in their office, there maybe times when it would not be possible. Since your home office is probably not a perfect choice (especially if you have relatives or pets around), the next option is to meet up somewhere public.

• Make a reservation

  It’s better to be assured of a meeting place. So after you’ve settled the day and time with your client. Depending on you locality, chances are there’d be a nice hotel lobby or restaurant to meet your client. Make sure there’s ample parking space. Or better yet, find one with reserved spaces or valet parking. Sure it’d cost you some money, but just consider it as an operating expense. Good impressions would serve you well.

• Make sure you can talk

  Reserve a table that’s conducive to conversation. A table at the corner, or near the wall will do fine as these give you a wall for privacy. Be sure to be seated far from the kitchen so as to minimize the traffic (waiters going in and out).

• No time for meal, tea or coffee may be fine

  Not everyone may have the luxury of time for a full meal. So you might want to try to have tea or coffee in a luxury hotel.

• Skip meals and drinks

  If your client would want to skip the meal and drinks, a secluded spot in a hotel lobby would be your best choice.

• Timing

  If you want a leisurely mood to your meeting, you may want to schedule it in the afternoon. This wouldn’t rush people and mess with lunch or dinner plans. Besides, afternoons are suited for chats over tea and coffee.