I often wonder about coffee shop etiquette: You meet up with a friend you haven’t seen for a while, and ask the inquisitive question “How are you?” Their non-inquisitive response? Work, work, work. So I stop them mid-sentence, and say “No, I’m asking how YOU are!” – Does anything sound familiar?

Rule 1 – Keep it casual and fun in the beginning. It’s been a while, heck in today’s world a while is a WEEK.

Rule 2 – Add humor. Unless there has been a death or grave illness, remember that you have shared times with this person, and hopefully good ones at that. Laugh a little.

Rule 3 – Sure ask how they are doing, but if they start into a rant about their work life stop them. How are THEY doing? It’s a deeper personal connection.

Rule 4 – Coffee time is short. Focus on the person in front of you, and not the many distractions around you. If you catch your coffee buddy eye wondering, remind them that coffee time is short so make the most of it. **Throw in a cup of water in their face only if necessary**

Rule 5 – It does not matter whether it’s a co-worker, friend, or family member – setting a time to do this again is important. It creates reliability and accountability, especially if this is company you enjoy.

Don’t let the B.S. of everyday life get in the way of creating being great. It’s your coffee time too!