Making a Good First Impression: Your Office Design Can Affect Success

When you're meeting someone unfamiliar, first impressions can mean the difference between a productive professional relationship and failed networking attempt. The same holds true for your office space. While ideally, potential customers and clients will base their business decisions on your track record and qualifications, it's a social instinct to make judgments based on the surrounding environment. As a result, the quality and condition of your office furnishings may have a hand in making or breaking future business deals.

According to the text Social Psychology by Smith and Mackie, "Because people select and create environments that reflect and reinforce who they are, observers can quite accurately form impressions of others from environmental cues like dorm rooms and single-person offices." Business owners should carefully consider the current state of their office environment and consider upgrading office furniture to garner positive first impressions from customers.

Consider that the office furniture you select will be a reflection on your business. Choose from styles including:

• Modern: Clean lines and stylish pieces indicate forward thinking and bold innovation


• Green: Sustainable office furnishings alert customers that social responsibility is an important mission of your organization


• High-Tech: Flashy gadgets and high-tech tools distinguish your business as communication savvy and data dependent


• Classic: Offices outfitted with rich woods and leather office furniture give the impression of tradition, sophistication and attention to detail


• Creative: Bright colors, abstract shapes and artistic detail indicate that your business relies on innovative ideas and imaginative projects


• Sterile: A spotless office space outfitted with hygienic furnishings distinguish you and your employees as serious individuals who value following procedure and seeking perfection

When choosing new office furniture, first consider the habits and preferences of the clients to which your business caters. For example, if you're refurnishing a dental office, your clientele expects a sanitary environment. However working to present a warm, inviting setting may have a calming effect on nervous patients. Alternatively, the office of a recording studio may want to utilize bright colors and artistic pieces to instill the impression of creativity within their space. In the end, you know your clients best - your office space should reflect their needs as well as your own.

Whether you're renovating your existing office space or starting from scratch, be sure you don't overlook any necessary furnishings or office supplies. Below is a checklist to consult when buying or leasing office furnishings

Desks Chairs Client Seating Organizational Furnishings Reception Area Bookcases Filing Cabinets Fire Proof Safe Bookcases Work Tables Wastebaskets

Wall Whiteboards or Bulletin Boards Office Decorations Computers & Monitors Surge Protectors and Power Cords Scanners, Printers & Projectors Paper Shredders Fire Extinguisher First Aid Kit Security Systems

Your office environment is a reflection of your business and the working style of you and your employees. Choose quality furnishings that accurately mirror the positive traits and goals of your business. Most importantly, strive to make your potential clients and customers feel at ease when they visit your business domain.