Best Foot Forward: 4 Necessities for a More Professional and Welcoming Office

[This article was written by Anita Ginsburg.]

When you have clients and potential customers visiting your offices, you want your workspace to look as professional and welcoming as possible. A disorganized or dirty office can turn clients away, and your business will suffer as a result. A welcoming workspace can also help improve the quality of work your employees produce. There are a few necessities that you don’t want to overlook to optimize your office environment.

Cleanliness

Always keep the office neat and clean to facilitate your work as well as make a good impression on others. Keep trash tucked away in the designated containers, and ensure it is removed frequently by the maintenance crew. 

If your building doesn’t have a designated cleaning crew already, consider hiring a commercial cleaning crew to deep-clean your office furniture as well as wall art and the flooring. Windows should also be kept clean and clear for aesthetic and practical purposes. Your cleaning crew should also sanitize daily the items handled by people that could transmit germs, like magazines, figurines, coffee service, and related areas.

Organization

Arrange your office methodically so that everyone can easily find the things they need. Folders, documents, and receipts along with other records should be organized alphabetically, color-coded, or set up in an easy-to-locate system so that others can find them.. Store your office supplies in places that are readily accessible without being obtrusive. Have your employees keep their desks, shelves, and drawers somewhat orderly so that everything stays in a logical location.

Style

While establishing your business’s style can be creative and fun, don’t overdo your decorating approach. Wall art, floral arrangements, and a few pieces of décor, themed or not, will set up a welcoming office layout, colors, and mood. You may want to establish an ultramodern vibe or a more laid-back feeling of serenity that will appeal to those who visit your office. Shop for professional decorating ideas rather than home furnishing products.

Comfort

A sense of energy and creativity can provide an upbeat atmosphere to a business office. However, don’t overlook the value of personal touches that offer comfort. Window dressings, chair cushions, and other comfortable items and furnishings often add vibrancy along with comfort for the long hours each day you put into your job and workspace. Infuse a subtle scent and low backdrop music, if appropriate, to motivate employees and help them relax during breaks.

Make your office an enjoyable and welcoming place to be during the work week. Don’t forget these essentials when creating an attractive and supportive office.

Author Bio:

Anita is a freelance writer from Denver, CO. She studied at Colorado State University, and now writes articles about health, business, family and finance. A mother of two, she enjoys traveling with her family whenever she isn’t writing. You can follow her on Twitter @anitaginsburg.