We all know the importance of looking and acting professional in the workplace, but if your workplace itself doesn’t look the part, it’ll speak louder than any nice pair of pants or shirt will. Your office says a lot about your personality, and in turn, about your business. A messy desk could mean a brilliant mind or a disorganized worker, but either way, your workspace will send a certain message about who you are and how you work. What’s the first impression a customer gets from your office?
A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words
Decorating your space with pictures can send different messages to a colleague or guest. A few photos with family and friends hung around your desk allow you to share your interests which could spark conversations with others and let clients feel like they can relate to you. Sometimes positioning these photos for only you to see, however, gives the impression you’d rather be anywhere else.
The Office Welcome Mat
Candy dishes, guest chairs, or even simply an open door all send the same message as a nice welcome mat. Employees with one of these items usually have inviting workspaces that others will feel comfortable stopping by or hanging around.
Do Not Disturb
On the flip side, if that guest chair is hidden under piles of paper or your desk faces away from guests, it’s likely to tell others to stay away because you’re trying to eliminate distractions. These things can imply you’re reclusive and don’t want people lingering around.
Sitting Pretty
You no longer need an over-sized leather chair to inform people of your status within your company. Ergonomic chairs with a much lighter and sleeker design are taking over, and with good reason, since they provide numerous health benefits and comfort. Others will recognize someone who invests in the latest office furniture designs as someone who stays on top of things.
You’re Here to Stay
Maybe you’re not big on pictures, but other decorations can be good for your workspace too. Plants, desk ornaments, or even a though out filing system show you’re there for the long run and not planning or anticipating your departure from the company. This could also make the company look bad if it sends the message you’re not happy working there.
R-E-S-P-E-C-T
Shelves decorated with plaques and awards form a strong impression. Bosses like to know that they have only the best working for them and a constant physical reminder tells them just that. As for those doing business with you, name plaques with your full title show your value to the company and that you demand respect.
Messy, Messy
A little desk mess never hurt anyone. In fact, if a desk is too clean, it could make a person appear somewhat dull or less valuable to the company. But a giant mess doesn’t speak highly of you either. Clients won’t take interest in working with someone who isn’t organized enough to separate their lunch contents from their filing system.