First impressions matter a great deal. For better or worse, snap judgements color our perceptions of people, places, and products. In the business sense, most professionals first encounter a company through its office reception area. Indeed, this space can either set up positive expectations or potentially disorient and disappoint a new visitor. Obviously this can have big consequences. If your business entertains guests, clients, job applicants, or visitors of any sort, then your reception area needs to be on point. Thankfully, today we’ll share six ways you can make this space more welcoming and pleasant:
Maps
Navigating an office layout for the first time can be confusing for many visitors. Indeed, if a business doesn’t employ a full-time receptionist to greet visitors, it can be difficult for them to know where they should go for a meeting, appointment, or conference. As such, it makes a lot of sense to create a map of your office space so that your guests can find where they need to go. Furthermore, if your company hosts out-of-town visitors frequently, including a map of your neighborhood or city is another great way to make your guests feel at home.
Company Branding
When a new employee or client enters your office, they should immediately know it; your guests should never have to wonder if they’re in the right place. One of the best methods for eliminating any confusion is to create prominent brand logos for your reception area. Not only is this a great way to promote your business, but it will help all visitors identify your workspace right away.
Natural Elements
Incorporating nature in office design is almost always a good idea. In addition to boosting employee morale and productivity, natural elements like plants, running water, and lots of sunlight can serve to relax visitors to your location.
Comfortable Furniture
It should go without saying that all of the furniture in your office should be comfortable and ergonomic. However, it’s of the utmost importance that the furniture in your reception area is fresh and new. You don’t want your most important visitors sitting on a dilapidated old sofa!
Tech Amenities
Sometimes guests show up for appointments early and have to spend a few minutes waiting in your reception area. Given that fact, it’s crucial that business owners ensure their waiting rooms have access to free WiFi and modern tech amenities like phone and laptop chargers. Dedicated business professionals move from one task to another while on the go, and accommodating their tech needs will win big points with them.
Food & Drink
No, you don’t have to roll out a full buffet for clients or job applicants, but you should have some snacks available at the front desk. Additionally, a water jug is a small, but vital, addition to any waiting area. Little touches like these are easy to overlook, but they can make a world of difference to your guests.
Final Thoughts
It doesn’t make sense to invest time and money crafting a modern, vibrant office only to ignore your reception area. If you’re looking to wow your visitors and gain that all-important positive first impression, then contact the Key Interiors team today. We’ve worked with professionals to craft waiting rooms for dentists, car dealerships, corporate offices, and more! Want to learn more about our process? Then check out our free eBook to discover how we deliver our renovation projects on time and under budget: {{cta(‘fe462ba7-e1b7-40f2-8692-91e01a26aac5′,’justifycenter’)}}
