Is it okay to causally visit someone at their office in American work culture?
Posted by clumsy_engineer@reddit | AskAnAmerican | View on Reddit | 178 comments
They are a friend of mine who I basically met through my professional work. We are both medical doctors. They are slightly my senior and we helped each other considerably related to our work. We tend to bring each other small gifts when we meet at conferences or meetings. I will be visiting their city for a conference. I would like to visit them at their office if they are available. I will of course ask if they have available time during my visit. As you might have guessed, I am pretty unfamiliar with American work culture, so I would appreciate any comments.
Tir_na_nOg77@reddit
Is it okay to say "Hey, let's meet up on your lunch break?". Sure, I don't see the harm in that. What I wouldn't consider acceptable is just stopping at their office and chatting away while they are supposed to be working.
ActuaLogic@reddit
No
coconut3020@reddit
As long as you're not doing it unannounced, and they have the time, it shouldn't be a problem. Dropping in unannounced, and with no confirmation that they are ok with you visiting would be unprofessional.
When I worked in an office setting, I was only ok with my husband stopping by unannounced. Even my best friend of 20 years didn't drop in without making sure I had the time. If you know this person through work, you're essentially acquaintances, not friends. Your relationship may have evolved into something more than just work associates, but it will always be that first. If you were more than work friends/colleagues you would be calling to make plans outside of their work environment, not strictly trying to see them in that professional setting. Like you would be calling them to make dinner plans not a meeting in their office.
Elivagara@reddit
No, could even cause trouble for them at work.
thomsenite256@reddit
Casually visit sounds like unannounced which you should NEVER do unless its like a restaurant or store or something. Even then always call, email, text first even if its day of to ask
handsomechuck@reddit
Definitely arrange a meeting beforehand. In work environments, definitely in a work environment like that, there are a lot of privacy and liability issues, and possibly security issues (if for example they have drugs or needles there). They can't have people hanging around who don't need to be there.
PeanutterButter101@reddit
A lot of us, myself included, keep work and friendships separate. Visiting friends can be reversed for "off hours".
Patient-Ad-7939@reddit
It very much depends on the industry/company. At my last job, family would drop in to visit other people. At my current job, things are really locked down, visitors have to go through lots of hoops to even get a visitor badge.
So while a friend who doesn’t work there can’t just swing by and say high, the culture itself is chill enough that another employee who sits elsewhere on the complex can enter my building and come say hi. My brother works at the same company so he says hi sometimes, and when he does he usually stays for like an hour to talk. But my spouse doesn’t work for the company, can’t just show up and say hi.
It’s always best to give people heads up, then they can plan to meet you, and meet at a coffee shop or somewhere else not at their office.
Spryadmin@reddit
Totally normal as long as you ask first, which it sounds like you’re already planning to do.
In the US, dropping by someone’s workplace unannounced can be seen as a bit intrusive, especially in medical settings where schedules are tight. But reaching out ahead of time and asking if they have a few minutes during your visit is completely appropriate.
Since you’re both doctors and already have a professional relationship, it’s even more natural. Most people would actually appreciate the gesture, especially if you’re in town anyway.
One small tip: suggest something flexible like “happy to stop by your office or meet nearby if that’s easier.” That shows you respect their schedule.
Overall, you’re approaching it exactly the right way.
Vanilla_thundr@reddit
Depends on the office. Many are very casual these days but a lot will have some sort of security to keep you out (even if it's just a key card). I'd definitely call ahead.
Electronic_Sky_207@reddit
My HR has unfortunately had to deal with a stalker targeting an employee, so we don’t fuck around. Key fob for entry, reporting unknown cars in the parking lot. A “drop in” would be very disruptive.
Efficient-Panic3506@reddit
yes, but only if you plan it in advance. and even then, it depends heavily on the workplace.
Angel89411@reddit
I randomly surprise my husband at work with food. I can him when I arrive. When I worked, he would do the same. I don't think either of us would appreciate random work visits from friends or other family and I don't know anyone who would. Best to call.
VariegatedPlumage@reddit
I think it depends on the location and industry! I love bringing people to my workplace as long as they give me notice and/or text to see if I have some free time before coming in.
Parking_Champion_740@reddit
For a doctor it would be pretty hard for them to take time to meet up with you. I’d plan a dinner after work with them
DanDamage12@reddit
As long as you ask them and they say it’s fine there should be no problem. Just depends on them and their office policy/security policies.
byebybuy@reddit
True, but still probably makes more sense to meet for lunch or coffee.
MakeStupidHurtAgain@reddit
Markdown syntax apparently only works in the mobile app, not via browser.
byebybuy@reddit
I am using the mobile app. iOS. Not working. It's making me use the fancy text editor and there is no way to disable it. I've looked all around the app settings. It sucks.
_gooder@reddit
laughs maniacally in Android
_oscar_goldman_@reddit
Markdown still works, at least in old reddit
byebybuy@reddit
iOS not workin for me. *sigh...*
Beautiful-Parsley-24@reddit
Why? Entertaining visiting colleagues is one of the reasons to have an office? In fact, I often offer my visitors office space, library, and lounge privileges.
byebybuy@reddit
I guess it depends on the office. I'd be able to offer none of those things and my office is a pretty normal corporate space.
No_Salad_8766@reddit
Yeah, my work doesnt let anyone in the building unless they have a badge to get in. If someone wants to drop by, I have to go out to them, but they cant come in.
Alternative-Being181@reddit
I can’t imagine a doctor would be free for a moment during the workday in their office. Most doctors I know are incredibly swamped. It’s best to reach out and see if you can schedule a meet up - if it’s declined it probably is not personal, they just have a lot of obligations at work.
fakesaucisse@reddit
Don't show up unannounced or ask to visit at the last minute. Reach out now and say "hey, I'll be in your town on xyz dates and I'd love to grab a cup of coffee and catch up. Let me know if you're free!"
CubicleHermit@reddit
This.
Also, norms vary hugely by industry, and for medicine, OP probably needs some confirmation from an American doctor vs. a more general one.
Thinking about tech, within our industry, how welcome office guests are varies by company, especially post-COVID, and I suspect this is similar within other private commerce.
n0th1ng_r3al@reddit
You can also say “I’m interested in investing in X technology and was recommended by a friend who works at Y company would it be ok if I visited and took a tour?”
Beautiful-Lie1239@reddit
Second this. Maybe doctors are fine. But almost every where else security nowadays are very tight. For various reasons. Safety, espionage, virus, etc etc. So much so that the social norm is to arrange for a meet outside the building or even campus.
kjm16216@reddit
Yeah my office has armed guards. Best if I just meet you at the restaurant.
saltporksuit@reddit
On the other hand, my doc has a very small practice and I’ve sat and talked with folks popping to say hello in her lobby. The variation is massive.
Upper_Extreme9461@reddit
This^^^
Sharkhawk23@reddit
They’re doctors. I think you can even mention you’d to see their offices.
r_slash@reddit
Especially if OP has a legitimate reason they could say “hey I’m going to be in your town and I’d love to grab lunch and maybe see how you do xyz in your clinic. Are you available some day the week of ____?”
Graaaaaahm@reddit
And also: "hey, I've got this weird thing that's both moist and chapped. It throbs a lot, and when I cough I hear a tiny cough from it. Take a look?"
Numerous_Delay_6306@reddit
Yeahh
Only-Breadfruit-6108@reddit
The same way that people who are not doctors do it!
spaetzlechick@reddit
This is the best option.
LetterheadClassic306@reddit
i've worked in US offices for years and honestly dropping by unannounced even for a friend is a bit tricky. what works better is texting them the week before saying 'hey when i'm in town for the conference, any chance you'd have 15 minutes free at your office' - gives them an out if they're slammed. american medical offices especially run on tight schedules so a surprise visit might not work even if they want to see you. bringing a small gift like you mentioned is perfect though, that softens the ask.
Educational-Big-6609@reddit
Depends on the workplace but better to meet out for lunch or happy hour.
markmakesfun@reddit
*casually? 😂
dobbydisneyfan@reddit
Nah. Just call or text them and say you’re in town abd would like to catch up! It’d be weird to show up to their place of work uninvited.
loweexclamationpoint@reddit
Depends a lot on how welcome the public is at their office. If it's a standard medical practice or a hospital, definitely worth asking particularly if OP is interested to see US retail medical care.
OTOH,if they are an MD researcher at big pharma, extremely unlikely.
dgillz@reddit
To a degree, sure. You should not stay long. Nothing at all is wrong with this.
I am not understanding the "they/them/their" pronouns, which typically refers to a group not an individual.
whitedogz@reddit
It depends on what type of Doctor. If they are seeing patients, they are likely booked solid through the weekday. The best bet might be at the end of the day. Just dropping by without planning wouldn't be very successful.
Boopa0011@reddit
As long as you ask ahead of time, it is generally fine.
If it's not fine, your friend will presumably suggest something else.
RainInTheWoods@reddit
You would want to schedule it with them.
BrotherNatureNOLA@reddit
It's generally not looked down upon to ask. You'll always find some oddball, though. It's not uncommon for professional colleagues to drop in on each other. Most people will want for you to check in with them ahead of time to confirm that they can spare some time.
txlady100@reddit
No.
JoyfulNoise1964@reddit
Not a surprise visit for sure
This-Reindeer6063@reddit
It really depends on the workplace and your relationship with the person. I'd definitely not show up unannounced, plan in advance like others say.
At like a grocery store, cafe, fast food place. Go ahead and just show up (still depends on the person). But a doctor's building or corporate office, probably not
HairyDadBear@reddit
At a lot of workplaces you'd be stopped at the front desk or won't even get into the building. You'd heve to give advance notice before you go anywhere. Doesn't sound like you'd have any issue meeting up with them though.
Quirky-Invite7664@reddit
They may not have a lot of time to eat. I would offer to bring lunch, if they can’tgo out (and if you do, make sure to show up on time). Or offer to meet for dinner or drinks at the end of the day.
Weightmonster@reddit
It would be very unusual and not allowed in a medical setting. Privacy, security, time concerns, etc.
Ask to meet after work.
TrenbalonieSandwich@reddit
Lots of Debbie downers in this thread who clearly have zero friends who care about them.
I do this all of the time and it's usually a surprise. Explain to the front desk reception you're meeting X and have a gift for them. They'll call up to let you in.
It's always fun when my friends come by and do it to me. Especially love it when my misses comes to the office.
GotMeAMuleToRide@reddit
Following workplace policy doesn't make someone a Debbie Downer. No one gets past our front desk without an approved security clearance. If you want to "surprise" me that's nice, but you'll probably be waiting in the lobby until I can get away from my scheduled meetings to come and meet you outside.
TrenbalonieSandwich@reddit
Look at this high and mighty glowie over here.
Suppafly@reddit
That surprise part is what would screw this up for most people. Give them a week or two's notice.
HustleKong@reddit
Not all of us are lucky enough to work in a place like that. If someone stopped by my office to see me, I'd have to come down to the maintenance and visit with them until I had to go back to my floor in my restricted access building to work and feel bad if the timing wasn't so that I could take my lunch break with them at least.
MacaroonSad8860@reddit
Contact them first and ask if it’s ok to drop by and if not, invite them to lunch or coffee
ReeMayRe@reddit
No, make plans ahead. Showing up at someone's workplace can be disruptive.
SabresBills69@reddit
reach out and let them know you will be in town. they probably will reach out about meeting up for dinner or something.
HumbleLife69@reddit
Pretty unusual. Invite them to lunch.
Rancor_Keeper@reddit
Or coffee.
DickFartButt@reddit
Or sex.
Drew707@reddit
Or random crimes against the homeless.
damboy99@reddit
Sub to my only fans but its me flying down the streets of Seattle paintballing the fentys.
Traditional-Photo227@reddit
Yep this is what I do when I visit my buddies
worlds_okayest_user@reddit
Yes, this is the safer choice. Some companies have strict rules having about visitors on-site. It's just easier to meet outside for lunch or coffee.
InitialIll2922@reddit
No
kmoonster@reddit
This is entirely situation dependent. Even for the same two people, with the same jobs/location(s), etc. it can change from one situation to the next.
I would text or call unless they have given you instructions otherwise.
Calm-Maintenance-878@reddit
Wait to see what their availability is. If able, they’ll probably be happy to show you their work place before going out for lunch or something on clock. You took all the right steps, it only would be unusual if you stopped by unannounced. That can happen but basically isn’t a thing.
jessper17@reddit
No. You’re not getting on the floor my office is on much less casually visiting.
Ok_Orchid1004@reddit
Like “hey I’m in the vicinity, lemme just stop by Joe’s office and say hi”?? No, that’s rude.
Scrappy_The_Crow@reddit
It's going to depend on what segment of work the "work culture" is in. I worked for a defense contractor, so there was zero chance of any casual "dropping in" to my work.
FishingWorth3068@reddit
A couple weeks before you go, Email or message about the days you are there, ask if you can come see the office and then take them to lunch. That gives them the out if they don’t want you to come to the office.
HermioneMarch@reddit
You might get them in trouble
TeamShonuff@reddit
I wouldn’t stop to come out but in between patients I would certainly say Hi, give you a quick laugh and a hug, tell you it’s good to see you, and then say goodbye and step in to see my next patient.
Something like that would be totally fine with me.
somecow@reddit
Just text, and go somewhere nearby. Don’t expect them to be able to meet at a certain time (they’re at work).
CycadelicSparkles@reddit
Genuinely depends on the office.
DruncleMuncle@reddit
Casual visit is fine. A surprise visit isn't.
SomebodysGotToSayIt@reddit
Oh hell no.
Living_Fig_6386@reddit
It's typically proper to call ahead or make an appointment so the person can make time for the visit or let you know if they are involved in something that they cannot get away from (giving a presentation, for example).
Other than that, it's typically considered acceptable in professional environments as long as it's not disruptive. It's fairly common to make an appointment to meet for lunch (even if it's just in the office), and sometimes a shorter visit to slip out for a coffee. In fact, small appointments of that nature are often considered a professional thing to do when it's to meet with colleagues from other institutions - it's a form of networking within the profession and fosters professional interaction.
You should be aware that there are professions where this is less common. You can't simply show up at a construction site, for instance, or drop in on someone involved in a customer-facing role in the service industry - that would be frowned upon. A lunch appointment would still be OK in most circumstances, but sometimes difficult to arrange.
NarrowAd4973@reddit
Honestly, just ask them to meet. They'll either say you can come by, or suggest a place to meet at (this is assuming they're available, of course, but you already covered that).
Meeting with people who are visiting from out of town is absolutely something people do, but it's best to plan it out in advance.
Pinwurm@reddit
There is no standard answer. This is dependent on the office, rank, seniority, industry, etc. If you ask, your friend will let you know.
Personally, if I had a friend or family member visit for a half hour, it's no problem. I'd show them around, introduce them to my team, etc.
But as to not distract other staff, I'd keep it brief and head to coffee/lunch nearby.
pudding7@reddit
This is the best comment and answer.
kinnikinnick321@reddit
Pretty common for “white collared” professionals. Since you’re dealing with a hospital environment, just correspond in advance, I’m sure doctors would rather meet in a hospital lobby or cafeteria and knowing when to expect you if they’re free.
getElephantById@reddit
I'd assume that for a doctor in a hospital or in private practice, you wouldn't want to just go wandering from room to room looking for them when you show up. That would be odd, if not a security violation. I'd just meet them in the lobby of their building, personally.
WhichWitch9402@reddit
No, it isn’t. It disrupts the day. Also, depending on the company you might need to go to security. They’d then have to call said person you are there to see.
My company’s physical space is locked down. You need a badge to enter facility. Or you go to security desk. If a friend of mine dropped by my work security would call me and if I were available to answer, I’d have to leave, go to security and then talk with friend in lobby area. Or I’d have to sign you in, you’d have to show ID, you’d be given a visitor’s badge and I would have to escort you the entire time you were in facility.
Please call friend and ask if they would be free for lunch or coffee. Much less disruptions for their day.
centex@reddit
Will vary widely by workplace.
Corporate America - If it's a large office with a cafeteria it is not unusual to have a guest join for lunch, especially if the food is good. However, most of the time, people would step out and meet their friend at a restaurant or a cafe for lunch, as opposed to eating on campus.
Khajiit_Has_Upvotes@reddit
I think this is veeeeery workplace dependant. I would say that it isn't typical unless you do it on your break/lunch time and we generally aren't allowed to bring non-employees into employee-only areas.
WhatsYourTale@reddit
Agreed--university professor with a private office? Mostly likely sure, go ahead. Doctor at a hospital? Uhhhh.... probably not. Doctor at their own private practice? Maybe, but probably ask ahead of time.
In general though, easiest solution is to ask the person ahead of time since they know their workplace's particularly rules best.
york100@reddit
No one seemed to care when the foreign exchange student staying with us from Albania visited my dad at the nuclear power plant.
Available-Ad6250@reddit
It would be in the realm of possibilities, but not likely welcome unless the relationship had previously established otherwise.
Jswazy@reddit
You can't even go into most offices at all. There's usually some sort of security
Elegant-Analyst-7381@reddit
It depends on their specific workplace culture. There's no harm in asking though. If having visitors at their office isn't okay they'll let you know, and then maybe you can arrange to meet for coffee or something.
JustAnotherUser8432@reddit
Visit and hang out at their office. Very unusual. Arrange to meet up at their office and go out for lunch or coffee nearby? Fairly normal.
BankOk9472@reddit
This is all you need to do. They will let you know when the best time is. Usually dropping by someone's work without knowledge of when they have downtime is not done. I imagine for a Doctor its even more of a No No.
EgoSenatus@reddit
It really depends on the office culture.
I’ve had two jobs where it was perfectly acceptable to have a friend stop by to say hi or have lunch with you in the break room, but I’ve also had a job where that was prohibited because it meant you’d take longer breaks.
Nofanta@reddit
Would be better to schedule a lunch date. There are often issues with restricted access in workplaces. I’d rather just meet you in public than deal with that stuff.
TheBimpo@reddit
I don’t know what doctor offices are like in your country, but they’re extremely busy in ours. Doctors aren’t just waiting around hoping friends drop by. They are seeing patients, they are taking care of prescriptions, etc. Don’t just drop in to see them.
Kianna9@reddit
Nope
wolf63rs@reddit
Where I work it's fairly common. However, most folks will ask to make sure the person visited is available and not seeing clients, busy meeting a deadline, in a meeting, finishing a project, or otherwise engaged.
ChiSchatze@reddit
I would ask other doctors specifically. This would be unusual in the corporate world, but may not be for doctors. Maybe they want to show you their practice, or introduce you to colleagues. Meredith Grey always has new research to share with other doctors. 😉
Reduak@reddit
No. Bosses frown up that in any establishment.
kartoffel_engr@reddit
If you ask and they accept, then sure.
I’d say showing up announced is not generally accepted in most professional careers. If I can’t plan for it, I usually don’t have time and I’ll be straightforward if someone showed up unannounced.
buttchugreferee@reddit
I don't think there's any such thing as "American work culture"
This is a big fucking country with a lot of people in it... everything you're asking literally depends on specific situations rather than a blanket idea
CorgiCheap6891@reddit
Unusual, but just fine. Though it might be hard to actually get a hold of them personally
FezzesnPonds@reddit
Depends on the place but it wouldn’t hurt to ask your professional friend if it’s ok to visit. Some places it’s fine, others not so much, they will know what theirs is like.
Bluemonogi@reddit
I would just ask them if they are available and if you can visit with them at their workplace or if they would prefer to meet up elsewhere.
Generally people don’t get long breaks at work and some jobs you can’t just chat to your friend while you are working. Some workplaces would not want non-employees hanging around.
1911Earthling@reddit
Lunch is the American way to socialize during the day.
Apart_Insect_8859@reddit
No, that's weird. I've always thought those Asian dramas where the wife drops by the office and they kick up a fuss because the random receptionist doesn't recognize her were odd. Unless there is a specific reason for it, like the employee forgot something she is bringing him, or they arranged to go elsewhere so they're just meeting up before going, a friend or family member randomly dropping by someone's job is odd, intrusive, and very unprofessional.
In some circumstances (not yours, think a boyfriend dropping in on his girlfriend without notice to 'check on her' and then making a fuss) it is seen as a red flag for abuse, because it is considered controlling or monitoring behavior.
At minimum, they should know you are coming and say ok, and there should be a reason. Like having lunch when they can't leave work, or if you want to see their work set up and ask questions.
Klutzy-Comment6897@reddit
Generally no. However, as doctors probably it’s fine. I know medical practices are always getting visits from salesmen selling drugs and gadgets etc. So I mean in that industry it’s common to have visitors.
Upbeat-Banana-5530@reddit
It all depends on where they work. If they're working in a hospital it might be more difficult for them to catch a long enough break for a visit than if they're working in their own practice.
fornefariouspurposes@reddit
Does your friend own or co-own the practice? If so, yes, you can visit them. If not, their employer probably wouldn't approve. Unless you're highly regarded in your field and your visit would impress their patients and other employees.
GardenWitchMom@reddit
I'd say it depends on the office culture. In my office, no one is allowed. But I work in a medical laboratory.
Hey-Bud-Lets-Party@reddit
That would be something for your friend to answer
PushThePig28@reddit
Please do not come to my work, I am busy trying to do work. Let’s link up for a beer after I’m off
Fun_Machine7346@reddit
Only if dressed formally.
Ok-Equivalent8260@reddit
Depends on the culture of the office
Penguin_Life_Now@reddit
Short answer is less and less so every year. For example my wife has worked at the same place for 20 years, when she started work there it was generally ok to have visitors show up. Over the years they have added photo ID name tags, and PIN code entry doors. Then visitor badges for approved visitors, now all visitors must be escorted in the hallways.
largos7289@reddit
I think it would be cool. Cooler if since your both Drs just show up as a consult on a patient. LOL
blipsman@reddit
Yeah, it's OK but I'd definitely reach out and schedule a time to meet them at their office so they are available and because you might need to be added to some sort of visitor list ahead of time.
Arleare13@reddit
I think it was a couple decades ago, but really not as much any more. Every building I've worked in in recent years has been really strict about letting in non-employees.
Your better option would probably be to suggest that you meet for lunch or drinks after work near their office.
voltairesalias@reddit
In American culture work is generally designated for work related activities, and time outside of work is related to personal activities. Instead of arriving unannounced I would ask them to go out for lunch, or meet them outside of working hours.
66NickS@reddit
If they worked a retail job like at the shoe store at the mall it would be fine to swing by unannounced, say hi, catch up for a couple minutes, and then move on.
Something more professional like the doctor’s office/hospital is different. You should reach out to them and see if you can catch up over lunch/dinner. They might offer to give you a tour of their work/job, if it’s the kind of place they would support or allow that.
DrBlankslate@reddit
No. Do not meet them at their workplace unless they specifically invite you.
pmonichols@reddit
This is a special situation, since doctors are usually partners in their practice and are therefore also "the boss."
I would shoot a message to the doctor's admin and ask about comfort-level around this. I could see you dropping by the office on a slow day being totally fine under the right circumstances.
icedragon42@reddit
For some jobs it's ok to briefly stop by and say hi if they aren't busy, but a medical doctor is going to see any attempt to engage with them at work as a disruptive annoyance. Set up another time to meet them outside of work
TokyoDrifblim@reddit
Extremely dependent on where they work. For a doctor, ask ahead of time if you are just gonna drop by. If you want to have a conversation with them, ask them to meet you for lunch
AsiaRedgrave@reddit
Depending on the work place, security isn't going to let you past the front entrance.
alaskawolfjoe@reddit
You never visit someone at their office. But if you stop by as you meet them for lunch or dinner, they may invite you in to show you around. Especially if you know other people working there.
But this is up to them to offer--not for you to ask.
pikkdogs@reddit
Depends on the person and the job.
For some people it would be very common and some people not so much.
As someone else said, asking them out to lunch is a decent other thing you could do. But visiting the office may work as well, especially if its just a quick thing.
StewReddit2@reddit
Honestly, off the bat.....I'd generally think NO!
Again, private practice "maybe" depending on volume and flow of office.....but probably still mostly "not" in general.
1) If they work within certain HMO type settings they generally should have/may have patients back to back w/o a huge amount of "casual" time got guest.
2) Due to American privacy regulations ( HIPPA/etc) doctors run an increased risk of accidental exposure of PHI by having non-essential ppl just casually hanging about in the office or clinical areas.
Also due to the perceived required professionalism and focus expected of medical care, personal casual visits could come across as being unprofessional and and disruption to patient care.
Again not to mention location/setting many hospitals/clinics will absolutely want to restrict/limit "guest" ....especially post Covid.
In general social calls for doctors probably isn't that prominent across America
ElefanteAmor@reddit
Make a reservation for a restaurant nearby their work. And then if they want to show you their work, they can.
Better-Credit6701@reddit
Let them know when you can meet them outside of work.
I had that happen to me when I was a professor in college as well as the system admin during my break from classes which lead to many 14 hour days. Here I am, running around taking care of computers in different departments when the front desk called me. A lady that I was about to dump decided to drop in with her kids. Granted, the only people who saw her were my co-workers since classes weren't in session but I was working, and really didn't want to stop to entertain her.
Crap, you are a doctor. Did you stop to think that your doctor friend could be busy doing doctor things? Make an appointment so he can at least charge you for the inconvenience.
Medical_Revenue4703@reddit
It very much depends on the workplace. I can imagine hospitals can at times be very busy and additionally they deal with security issues in many departments. You're asking ahead, which is what I'd reccomend. Your friend can let you know if he's available and maybe could arrange to show you around his offices if you ask. If he's busy or I'm sure he can meet you outside of his office hours.
kodex1717@reddit
It's best to meet somewhere else for lunch unless you are specifically invited to the office.
IHaveBoxerDogs@reddit
I think it’s fine when making lunch plans with them to say “I’d love to also see your facility, if you have time.” Your title made it seem like you were just going to pop by, but the post shows you will plan ahead. I am not in the medical field, one of my besties has shown me around her surgery department (she’s a surgeon.)
lmg00d@reddit
When you contact them to suggest meeting for coffee or lunch, you could also say you'd love to see where they work. It sounds like you may be coming from another country, and because you're in the same line of work, I wouldn't find it odd to want to see how your workspaces may differ.
Then you could perhaps meet at their office before you go somewhere else.
ThirdSunRising@reddit
If you weren’t a doctor I’d say no, don’t do it. But as a doctor, the social rules are different and you can go places most others can’t. Bottom line, just ask if it’s all right in their particular workplace because it’ll be very different from one practice to another
AwakenedDreamer__44@reddit
Depends on the office but I don’t think this is particularly common. Just message them and plan it in advance. It’s better than showing up unannounced.
TheNinjaDC@reddit
Depends on the office and job type. Fairly common if the company has customers being able to walk in.
Or put another way. If it’s a dedicated facility that’s just one company taking up a city block or two. Odds are not.
But if your company is part of a high rise with 20-30 other companies and has walk in guests, yeah.
Comfortable-Tell-323@reddit
Really depends on the industry but generally if you call ahead and schedule it with them it's fine. I wouldn't show up and just ask the admin when they're available but you can call ahead and see what their availability is and express an interest in seeing their place of work, see of they offer a tour or suggest meeting elsewhere.
ericbythebay@reddit
Casual is a pretty loaded term. If you really mean, we are both professionals and I would like to see how their office is set up and operates, that isn’t casual and is fine.
If you want to show up and shoot the shit while raiding all the snacks in the break room, the visit would be frowned upon.
TheOfficialKramer@reddit
It would be strange to randomly drop in, but if you ask and she says it's ok, then go for it.
karnim@reddit
It is fairly unusual to meet at the office as opposed to getting lunch or dinner somewhere, but given your field may be more normal. I'm not sure how networking/mentorship works for physicians, but if you are interested in seeing their office, tools, etc., you can just ask.
bigredroyaloak@reddit
I work in the medical field and it is very welcoming to get a visit. If they have an office and it’s not the hospital I think asking when is the best time will give you the answer.
Outlaw_Josie_Snails@reddit
You should arrange an exact day and time to meet the person outside of the office, such as at a nearby cafe, park, or restaurant.
Showing up to an office uninvited is never a good idea. It may be against the security policy of the company. Additionally, your colleague may prefer advance notice.
HVAC_instructor@reddit
Depends on the office. Some yes some no
DoublePostedBroski@reddit
No. Ask if you can meet them nearby for lunch or coffee.
Alternative-Pear9096@reddit
Are you saying you're interested in seeing the American workplace? Say so. Ask if they're free for coffee/lunch and ask if you could see what the American medical office looks like.
mallardramp@reddit
In my line of work, it’s very normal and totally acceptable/encouraged. Just not usually by surprise.
Might be more unusual in a medical setting though, so ask about dropping by or doing lunch out. That way they can tell you what they prefer.
3m2coy@reddit
Meeting someone at their office and then leaving for lunch is normal. Meeting them at their office and staying at the office is unusual.
Talking to someone in their office is usually done in a professional capacity. We leave the office to bring a more enjoyable, casual atmosphere. Meeting someone after work for drinks is also common, especially if you are visiting from out of town.
Lncn@reddit
If you just showed up unannounced that might be odd, but sounds like you are coordinating this beforehand.
Considering, this is not weird at all, in my opinion. They should tell you if it doesn’t work and would rather meet after work or something. That’s highly dependent on the job or office. There is not some implicit cultural rule that you do not interact with someone while at the office. In fact, “meeting an old friend/colleague for lunch” on your break is fairly common.
einsteinGO@reddit
Just tell them you’re going to be in town and would love to grab coffee or lunch and ask what’s convenient
notthegoatseguy@reddit
I would ask on one of the medical subs. I would hope that with HIPPA laws, most doctor offices would control random other people who aren't a practicing physician at that specific office/hospital/health system.
Meet them for lunch, even if its just in the hospital cafeteria.
Traditional_Trust418@reddit
If they're a doctor I assume they work at a hospital? Or a clinic? I wouldn't visit them at work, especially unannounced. I work in a hospital and I wouldn't want visitors at work. I have too much to do and most of the places I go in the hospital my friends couldn't follow me to due to safety and confidentiality reasons. So if you visited me at work you'd be sitting in a chair in the waiting room
pinniped90@reddit
Probably will vary widely by industry and by firm.
I'm in a building with a coffeeshop on the ground floor so that's where I'd meet someone. But some people are in buildings without a natural meeting place - and if it's an industry with security requirements it might be a substantial process to get somebody into the building. Like, you'd do it for a real business purpose but might be much for just coffee.
IA_Royalty@reddit
Let them know you're in town and would like to see their office, they'll either find a time for you to stop by or let you know it won't work for whatever reason.
DonktorDonkenstein@reddit
Call first. If the person is okay with it, then it's okay. There aren't any, or at least very few, universal rules in the US workplace. It really depends on the individual office/work place.
shammy_dammy@reddit
Not very common. Why do you want to visit at their office instead of scheduling a lunch or something?
Beautiful-Parsley-24@reddit
A friend? As a physician, this is 100% appropriate.
SDF3_SkullLeader@reddit
Ask if you can meet for coffee or a drink after hours, that way they can determine where to meet. As an MD they likely don't have much room in the schedule to accommodate.
Sea_Analysis_8033@reddit
I doubt they would let you in the building unless they came to sign you in
NatAttack50932@reddit
With advance notice like that it's perfectly acceptable, but generally the expectation is that you offer to take them to a quick lunch or something if they have the time, rather than just popping in and out of the office.
MellifluousSussura@reddit
It shouldn’t be a problem. If they seem fairly busy you could ask to drop by for lunch and go eat somewhere. Sometimes it’s easier to visit with time set aside if they have a lot to do
DachshundNursery@reddit
Depending on the kind of office they may have security that would require a guest pass. But it's not out of the ordinary to arrange that kind of visit.
ALoungerAtTheClubs@reddit
You should arrange to have lunch or dinner. There may be rules about who may enter the office, especially in a medical setting.
Legitimate_Salt_8391@reddit
Seems fine.
Just send them a message and ask if they want to meet. Let them decide if at the office or at a café is better for them.
GSilky@reddit
It's not usual and I personally hate it.
PJ_lyrics@reddit
You'll get your answer right there lol. In general a lot of types of business it would be ok. Like if they worked in a factory you probably couldn't unless it was lunch or something. But most office type settings I don't see it being an issue.
rawbface@reddit
No. Unless they run a private practice of their own, you can't just walk into any old office because of security concerns.
My wife and I work for different companies, but each of us has an RFID just to enter the lobby of our respective places of work.
queefblaster9000@reddit
I'm sure they would be thrilled. Just make sure they have a clear spot in their schedule.
zealous_ideals790034@reddit
I wouldn’t show up unannounced, and when you reach out to see if they’re free, they’ll probably suggest meeting somewhere for coffee or lunch.
IlexAquifolia@reddit
This is not very common. I would arrange to get coffee or a drink outside of work hours.
Appropriate-Food1757@reddit
Can meet for lunch outside of the office