Meeting friends today almost feels like dating sometimes, doesn't it? You want the friend you've just met to call you, you hope they like you, and you might even get nervous before you have a conversation with them for the first time. This is especially true if you're meeting an online friend or someone you've just met in passing.
Well, since meeting someone new feels like dating at times, why not take a page from the dater's handbook and schedule a coffee date to meet them instead? It's a safe and more relaxed way to chat with someone you don't know very well.
Coffee dates are sometimes better than "activity" dates where you're doing a hobby or whatever together, because the focus is on getting to know one another. The coffee house is designed for people to sit and relax and have a cup of joe (or tea) and just chat. You won't feel weird doing this with a new friend because everyone around you is also doing the same thing. There's eye contact, conversation, and it's all done in an environment with lots going on. If there's a lull in the conversation you can people watch until you think of something to say.
It will more easily help you connect because you'll be able to schedule it into your busy schedule and not break the bank while you do something fun. Here's how to make the most of a coffee date with a friend.