Where to meet a client when freelancing
When you are performing local freelancing work you'll often come across a client who wants to meet you in person to discuss details or finalize a project. Meeting someone in person is a good way to communicate and keep a business relationship. It can also be a great way to tell if someone is crazy :)
Tip #1: Don't meet at someone's house. It's unnecessarily intimate, a bit creepy, and could potentially be dangerous. Always opt for a public place that you can easily leave if necessary. You don't want to spend 6 hours cooped up in someone's home office with them looking over your shoulder while you're working, trust me.
Tip #2: Meet half-way. When you pick a public place to meet, always try to find a place that is half way between you and your potential client. Why should you have to drive around (paying for gas) to meet someone for potentially no benefit? Also try to pick an area that is familiar to you so you have less of a chance of getting lost. And as always, Google Maps is your friend.
Tip #3: Go to a place with free wifi. Coffee shops often have free wifi and a good quiet atmosphere for meeting with a client. Bringing along a laptop to show off your work or make some quick changes can be very helpful. Be familiar with local businesses and restaurants that offer good, free wireless internet. I personally like Panera, which has a ton of locations near me and decent free wi-fi.
Last but not least, if you feel like there's a reason to be concerned about your safety, always tell someone where you're going.
Stay safe and don't waste your gas!