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UPDATE: Mysterious In Person Meeting, good or bad? —Neither! Wanted to check in
My boss wants to meet for lunch in NYC next week. The company is all working remotely, and I am currently 2 hours away, while he is 1. He hasn’t indicated why he wants to meet. Trying to manage anxiety and prepare for any range of outcomes before we meet. We speak regularly over phone and zoom. I can argue to myself that it is bad or good in equal measure. Seems like a weird move to make someone commute 2 hrs for something bad (or maybe al telling myself that). Was curious of people’s objective impression of this. It is a large company.
Anonymous
11/22/20 at 4:49PM UTC
Curious what the outcome was, I assume this meeting took place, please update us!
Maryann Augusta
Consultant
1.89k
11/12/20 at 3:20AM UTC
I think it’s strange that he wants to meet f-2-f with Covid cases in the rise. If you feel that way, I’d share that with him. I’d say while I’d love to meet for lunch , I’m concerned with the number of cases in the rise. Can we discuss this matter over the phone or postpone lunch if it’s not imperative?
Anonymous
11/10/20 at 3:55PM UTC
Unfortunately, the few people I have known in this situation faced bad news. My sister had worked from home in sales for 19 years and was summoned along with her entire team to the HQ in another state. They were all told it was their last day, they had HR there to go over severance and COBRA. They had to turn in their laptops, phones etc. It sucked, my sister didn't even have a way to print her boarding pass for the flight home or to call my BIL to tell him what happened.
My friend was called to a restaurant meeting and also told it was her last day. Her company had FedExed a box to her which was waiting for her when she got home. She had to send back her laptop and company files to receive her last check.
Caroline Platt
621
11/10/20 at 2:56AM UTC
It may also be that he is changing jobs & wants to bring you with him. You never know.
Kimberly Olmo
260
11/09/20 at 9:34PM UTC
I really want to know how this resolves. Good thoughts all around, and hope all goes well OP!
KelleyHigher Education professional in Upstate NY
306
11/09/20 at 9:01PM UTC
I would feel similar in a situation like this. I agree with what many others have said about asking if there’s anything you should prepare. This could be a good indication as to the topic. Best of luck and hoping it’s something positive!
Titra G HamiltonDirector at small business serving Federal Govt
119
11/09/20 at 6:25PM UTC
It was pre-COVID-19, but one of my direct reports felt the same when the COO reached out about lunch. It was just lunch. The COO just wanted to get to know my Program Manager better. I wouldn't worry until there is something actionable to worry about. Also, think of this as an opportunity to get informal feedback on your performance and career trajectory, ask about where the company is going, sell your skills and experience that he/she may not know about, ask abut training opportunities, etc.
patty quanCPA
33
11/09/20 at 6:08PM UTC
Do you feel comfortable meeting f2f (due to Covid)? If so, then I would just ask for the agenda so you can prepare if you need! Or you could just be straight-forward and ask what the purpose of the meeting is. I don't think it's a bad thing to know ahead of time, since it'll help you manage until the meeting!
Deborah VidmarCareer Advisor for Engineering Students
31
11/09/20 at 5:11PM UTC
Given the recent rise in COVID cases, as we approach holiday season, it is reasonable to indicate to your boss that you aren't 100% comfortable meeting at a restaurant in NYC. Ask if it would be possible to meet via Zoom. If not, ask how to prepare and then wear your mask and follow all safety precautions. I think it's likely good news, not bad news... but either way, are you willing to risk you and your family's health by attending an in-person meeting in one of the largest, busiest cities in the world during a global pandemic?
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