If you’re a business owner or office manager who expects clients to visit frequently, it’s important to remember that your office isn’t just a workspace; it’s a representation of the brand. As such, you want to create an inviting client-focussed office space where visitors feel comfortable, get a sense of your values and will want to return.
A flexible and serviced office in London enables your business to evolve your space as your team changes. For instance, you can adjust the number of meeting rooms and event spaces since you won’t be tied into long-term contracts. With the adaptability afforded by flexible office space, you can better follow the tips on creating a client-friendly office below.
Make Your Reception Area Inviting
A friendly office is one that immediately greets your visitors. You don’t want your clients to feel ignored. As such, you want a dedicated reception area, if possible, with someone there to staff it.
Comfortable seating isn’t just crucial in creating a productive workplace; it helps your clients feel welcome in your space.
Pick furniture with armrests and cushions to offer comfort during waiting time. That said, you also want to pick sturdy furniture made from durable material, ideal for high-traffic areas. If you anticipate clients visiting regularly, you need furniture that can withstand the demand.
Implement Client-Friendly Technology
Your technology should also factor into how you design an office for clients. For example, incorporate technology to allow for video meetings. Also, effective IT systems should be in place to enable the transfer of information quickly and easily.
Think about the check-in system. How will your client get in if you have a lock outside your building? Will they have a temporary key card? Do they need to press a buzzer, or will they need to ring you? Ensure you tell them what to expect, helping with their smooth arrival. Have your phone to hand and incorporate other pieces of tech to assist, i.e. a video doorbell, if necessary.
Think About Accessibility
As mentioned, what impresses clients in office spaces is when their needs are met. This includes accommodating those who are differently abled, such as ensuring any meeting spaces are easily accessible.
Consider the ways to adapt your office better to client needs. If they have to walk through multiple office spaces to get to the meeting, you should change the meeting place or streamline access.
An ideal location for a client office for meetings is by the reception. Less traffic through the office also allows you to show as little behind-the-scenes as possible, maintaining an illusion for your clients.
Display Your Awards or Certifications
Your office space and first impressions for clients are very deeply linked. It’s a branding opportunity that can help ensure you win their trust.
Emphasise your expertise and professionalism by showing that you’re good at what you do and have all the necessary certifications to call yourself an authority.
Clients want to know they’re working with the right team and will be comforted to see you are qualified in the industry, establishing trust and the right professional relationship.
Clearly Sign Where Your Office Space Is
Quash any chance of confusion or frustration in your office. If they have a hard time getting around the place, it will affect how they feel about their visit.
First, make it easy for them to find your business by displaying outside signage. Signage is also a good idea inside a building besides letting them know they’re in the right place.
From arrow signs directing clients up the stairs to a welcome sign outside the main office door or branded signs dotted around the office brandishing the business logo and its values, this signage provides tangible evidence of your business, once again helping to build clients’ trust.
Light Up Your Office
Adequate lighting is vital, first and foremost, for safety. It’s especially important in a warehouse setting or offices with limited windows.
Rely on natural light when possible, introducing as much of it as your building allows. Better lighting is welcoming and increases safety, making it easier on the eyes and reducing trips.
Lighting also enhances the office’s appearance and will play a role in any presentations to your client. Some businesses need to be able to present products that require the client to see the true look and colour of a product better.
Where that is the case, ensure that lighting is bright and clear, with the right colour of walls, floors, and furnishings to aid visibility.
Keep Your Office Clean!
Your business will be judged by the standards of your office. Any client visit to the office can be ruined by mess, dirt, and unhygienic standards. Loads of dirty coffee cups and dust are unappealing and are sure to deter your clients.
Therefore, keep your office clean and your paperwork organised. Ensure there are no stray cables and your team has enough space to work, with desks set apart to allow for manoeuvrability.
Bins should be emptied, floors hoovered regularly, and windows need routine cleaning to ensure natural light comes in. A clean office shows you take pride in what you do.
To conclude, a client-friendly office is easy enough if you follow the proper steps. Aside from making a better impression on all who visit, it will motivate your employees, help them feel welcome and comfortable and boost productivity.
Just as much as the office itself, your clients will take note of the people inside it and the attitudes that they present.
Designing a client-friendly office is essential to impress visitors, helping you build strong business relationships.
