It is interesting how disarming a cup of coffee can be to many. People that they find too intimidating to approach on a normal basis are suddenly ordinary folks with a cup of coffee in their hands. It is easy to strike up a conversation and keep the ball rolling as you both savor a great cup of java.
In fact some managers can learn a bit more if they stroll around their offices and have a cup of coffee while talking with their employees. This way the staff don’t feel pressured as you interview them. It just feels like a very casual chat over your favorite brew.
In Bolingbrook, Police Chief Ray McGury is using coffee as a way to bring the community closer. He’s hosting the first Coffee With The Chief at the Starbucks branch on Boughton Road. He encourages any of the residents to come on over and say hello. He’ll be available to discuss any concerns about crime and safety from 7 to 9 pm on January 13.
Try it for yourself. See how coffee can help you in your line of work. A great cup of coffee can go a long way indeed.
[tags] coffee, community,management,communication [/tags]
Originally posted on January 6, 2007 @ 3:50 pm