First impressions matter, and this couldn’t be more important than when welcoming clients or associates to your luxury business. Aside from an initial online or telephone interaction, your premises will be the first place that your discerning clients get an idea of you and your practices and so making the reception or waiting area of your business the most inviting environment it can be is of paramount importance in order to make the finest first impression possible.
Creating a comfortable and welcoming space where clients will feel immediately at ease and entertained as they wait for your services should not be underestimated, and so if you feel that your reception area or waiting room could do with a facelift, then look no further. From the lighting to the furniture and the scents to refreshments, we take a look at the very best ways you can make that stand-out first impression.
Choose comfortable furniture that will make clients feel at ease
Clients, business partners and visitors to your premises will need somewhere comfortable to sit if they will be waiting, even if it’s just for a few minutes and this can be anything from plush armchairs to simple but stylish benches. You could buy beam seating that is practical, luxurious and elegant all at once, and choose from a range of colours to suit your décor.
Your waiting room furniture should also be arranged in a way that promotes conversation and makes it easy for clients to move around the space. Consider adding some accent pieces like coffee tables or end tables as these can help create a more homely feeling in the space and will make for the perfect place to showcase artful items.
Add plants or flowers to brighten up the space and create a calming atmosphere
Greenery is always a welcome sight, and it can do wonders for the ambience of your waiting room. If you don’t have much natural light, choose plants that are known to thrive in low-light conditions -peace lilies and snake plants are two good options. Or, if you prefer flowers, opt for something timeless like roses or tulips – keeping in mind that flowers may be more maintenance than you have time for.
You could also add some thoughtful touches like magazines or books that your clients might enjoy. This shows that you care about their comfort and want them to have a pleasant experience while they wait.
Install a television or other form of entertainment to help pass the time
If your clients are going to be waiting for more than a few minutes, it’s a good idea to provide some form of entertainment. This could be as simple as a television mounted on the wall, or you could go for something more high-tech like a digital signage system. Don’t forget to also offer free Wi-Fi so that clients can stay connected while they wait and artwork upon the walls will catch the attention of anyone waiting.
Play soothing music and offer refreshments to create the perfect ambiance
Soothing music in the background can also help to create a calm and relaxing atmosphere – you could consider playing classical music, or something that is specifically designed to be relaxing. As for refreshments, tea, coffee, water and light snacks like biscuits and fruit should always be offered, where appropriate – if you are a dentist or offering services that wouldn’t make eating or drinking before a good option, then perhaps skip this.
Make sure the space is always clean and tidy
This one goes without saying – but it’s important to make sure that your waiting room is always clean and tidy. After all, you want your clients to have a positive impression of your business. Try to have someone dedicated to keeping the space clean and organised, this way, you can be sure that it will always look its best. And don’t forget about playing to all the senses as a welcoming scent each time you, your staff and visitors enter the space will uplift any room.
In short, make sure your waiting room reflects the professionalism of your business
Making your waiting room more comfortable for clients doesn’t have to be time-consuming or highly costly. With a few simple changes, you can create an inviting space that will make clients not only happy after their initial experience with you, but hopefully coming back time and time again.
