The Power of First Impressions in the Office
We all know that overplayed phrase, “You never get a second chance at a first impression.” We expect that it applies to a job interview, making a sale, or pitching an idea. It applies to a politician seeking to win over a crowd. But this idea is also supported in the business environment. If someone comes into the front door of your office building, will they be greeted by a friendly receptionist, or left to stand quietly and wait, in hopes that you’ll be there soon to greet them? What does your entrance lobby look like? Is the office itself bright and friendly, neat, and tidy? Are there chairs arranged to make visitors comfortable? All of these aspects can help to make or break that first impression, and according to the Association of Psychological Science, it only takes one-tenth of a second for that first impression to be made.
How to Generate a Good First Impression
You may think, sure the lobby is dark and quiet, but once I show up, I’ll bring the energy and win them over! The trouble with that thinking is that first impressions are often indelible, and you aren’t likely to beat the one-tenth of a second (or, in some cases, 7 seconds) mark with that strategy. On the flip side, 72% of visitors who have a good first impression of your company will spread your name to 6 or more of their friends. Why begin at a loss when you can start strong?
One way to generate a welcoming atmosphere in your entrance lobby would involve a visitor check-in system at reception. The receptionist can send you a notification the moment your guest arrives and be there to greet them with a friendly smile. Professional cleaning and a well-maintained space, a well-stocked coffee corner, art, and lighting are also good for first impressions. If you’re open to a new paint job, green is considered a warm and inviting color. It creates a pleasing and creative feeling for your customers and gives an impression of wealth.
Recovering from a Bad Impression
If you feel you’ve already made a bad impression, or at least a less-than-stellar impression on a guest or customer, all is not lost. Overcoming a negative impression can be challenging, but consistent positive interactions thereafter can convince a customer to give you another chance. Simply focus on what happened and why, and put your best foot forward continuously, and you might be able to shake that bad first impression after all. Invite your guest back after your lobby has gone through its makeover, and you’ve hired a very friendly receptionist staff and implemented their scheduling software and show how smooth of an experience you can provide!
Partner with Striden Today for Facilities Management Solutions
Striden can help manage your office space so that it is clean and well-organized, and your pantries are stocked. Your lobby coffee corner will serve your guests nicely, and we can even staff your reception desk for you, implementing cloud scheduling software for an easily positive first impression. Let Striden help guide you through designing and maintaining workspaces that achieve your goals. Contact us today to discover how we can tailor a solution that fits your business and sets you on the path to success.
-
Ashleigh Fiora is the Vice President and Head of Strategy & Sales at Striden, she brings over 15 years of expertise and a passion for creating exceptional workplace experiences! Known for her professional presentation and personable nature, Ashleigh has a proven track record of success, having won numerous awards for exceeding sales quotas and spearheading new business development across the country.
Her leadership style combines strategic thinking with a client-focused approach, consistently driving results and fostering long-lasting relationships. Ashleigh’s commitment extends beyond her professional life; she is actively involved in her community, supporting local school fundraising efforts and volunteering.
A graduate of Towson University with a BS degree, Ashleigh currently resides in Maryland with her daughter, Gianna, and their Goldendoodle, Layla.
English
Spanish