It’s an investment trade off around commitment (in person is better for connecting and relationship building but is more expensive as a time investment). If it’s more transactional a phone call is better (eg, quick question or advice about something specific). If it’s something more potentially meaningful, in person Coffee makes more sense (eg, if I’m looking to network with someone or trying to hire them / get them to hire me).

The defaults you set could make a big difference in the user experience. Maybe every first touch is chat/phone, then move to real world? Dunno if there’s a right answer but feels like something to be thoughtful about.