3 Tips to Welcome Visitors in the Reception Area
Businesses with regular walk-in traffic can enhance their customer connection by paying close attention to the first place that’s noticed—the reception area. First impressions do count. Furnishings in the reception area that meet the following guidelines will enhance interaction and create a positive brand experience.
Tip 1: Provide Color
When we meet another person, the science of first impressions is at work. Their eyes and smile can create a connection and reveal something important like their confidence or nervousness. A sincere smile that reflects a caring attitude wins over hesitant customers and creates a strong bond among allies.
Furniture in the reception area can act the same way. A sofa, chairs, reception desk and walls that are color coordinated can put questioning customers at ease and calm the nerves of top talent job applicants wondering if the company is the right fit.
Vary the colors depending on the type of business. A financial planning firm can have a business casual look while a graphic arts company can experiment with bolds and pastels.
It can be a refreshing and inviting area after an elevator ride or walking in from off a busy street.
Tip 2: Offer Comfort
Reception areas don’t need to be ostentatious but rather comfortable. Someone who has to wait for several minutes before their appointment should be able to sit on chairs that support their weight evenly and on sofas that make it easy to sit on and aren’t an embarrassing struggle to climb out of.
Attention to comfort is tangible evidence of caring about the needs of others. Businesses and non-profit organizations operate to meet needs and solve problems of paying customers and clients and program recipients. A reception area that’s comfortable for all shapes and sizes creates trust and goodwill.
Add one or two small tables and even a small appliance to chill water bottles.
Make the reception area a brand statement.
Tip 3: Ensure Quality
Investing in quality furniture for the reception doesn’t have to bust a budget. There are mid-range pricing options for products that are durable, comfortable, and innovative in their design. Sleek and curved desks have a different aura than heavy desks that act like barriers.
Selected furniture should be easy to care for and clean. Chairs or sofas with small cracks and openings can be hiding places for bacteria that creates odors.
All About First Impressions
A reception that shows thought and care in planning and decorating makes a subtle statement and first impression regarding an organization’s capabilities.
Purchasing furniture for a reception area or offices frequently raises questions and needs around space planning. 2010 Office Furniture provides expert planning services along with an array of products. Browse the site and then click here to describe your needs.
Read Also: Practice Makes Perfect in Office Design and Planning
Main Photo: OFS Elements Reception Desk
Resources & Special Thanks to Respective Product Manufacturers: OFS
