1. If you are to visit a friend at work/home, go to an interview, it never hurts to ask for directions from where you will be coming from. They can give you the best route, advise you about the right fare, and tell you where to get off nearest their building/location.
I've met people attending our orientations and apologizing for being late simply because they have gotten lost and could not find the building. I would have been more than happy to give them directions if I only knew!
2. If you are too proud/ shy to ask, it is best to consult google maps (googlemaps.com). It even gives you landmarks nearthe location you are supposed to go.
3. At times, it is best to take the cab if the driver knows how to get there. Otherwise, you scringe at every increase in your taxi fare just by going around the area asking bystanders for directions.
