Your business expertise and a great resume play a vital role in being successful. But when you’re marketing your services to higher-end clients, you also have to look the part. Aside from dressing professionally and developing strong inter-professional relationships, you’ll also want to consider the way that your surroundings represent your brand. If your office is filled with mismatched furniture and tacky decorations, you’ll have a hard time making that “wow” impression on your clients.
First impressions are always important for businesses, but they’re more important if you serve high-end clients. These individuals are accustomed to receiving the best, and a budget-rack waiting room simply won’t impress them. They’ll form their first impression within seven seconds, and if it’s not good, it could take several more positive encounters to change their mind about you.
If your office leaves something to be desired for high-end clients, it’s time for a little renovation. Here are some tips that can apply to any high-profile waiting area.
1. Slipper Chairs in the Waiting Room
When it comes to the office, slipper chairs exude elegance. An armless chair with high-quality fabric, the slipper chair is comfortable, appealing, and perfect for any office space. More than that, the history behind the slipper chair adds to its sophistication and attraction.
“There’s something illustrious about the very thought of a slipper chair,” says a guide by Chairish. “When it first emerged in the early 18th century, it was designed as seating for a woman’s boudoir—a place where an elegant Victorian lady might sit to put on a pair of silk slippers… Long gone are the days of the silk slipper, but the slipper chair has become a permanent fixture in the modern interior.”
Slipper chairs were once designed for nobles and aristocracy. The refinement of these chairs hasn’t changed, making it the perfect choice for your office space.
2. Original Artwork Throughout the Office
Real, original canvases say a lot about the type of business you are. You don’t necessarily need artwork from a famous painter—do look for original artwork, though.
“Today if you want a one-of-a-kind piece, you can get it without having to trek to an uppity gallery, exclusive show or high-roller auction,” explains Stephen Tanenbaum of the Huffington Post. “The Internet has eliminated longstanding barriers to entry for buying original artwork — namely, access and high prices. Prior to the web, collectors had to have longstanding relationships with brick-and-mortar art galleries to find and purchase original work. With the supply essentially controlled by a select few, high-quality and unique work was largely the domain of an exclusive group of wealthy buyers.”
Ultimately, art culture has shifted to a point where original pieces are absolutely necessary. Incorporate a few pieces into your own office space.
3. Rare Cultural Artifacts for Conversation Pieces
You can make some interesting connections with clients involving travel. Incorporating cultural pieces into your design can also increase your connections with multiple cultural backgrounds.
“If you’ve done any traveling, chances are you’ve brought home interesting souvenirs such as postcards, clothing and photographs,” writes Kandace Heller of Rapid Office Monkey. “Indicate your ability to work with clients from many backgrounds by creating a display highlighting your travels. Turn your postcards into a personal collage. Frame a child’s dress in a native print under glass. Blow up pictures of your travels to hang on the walls of your office. Travel pictures are not only interesting to look at while waiting for a meeting to start, but they are also great ice breakers and conversation starters.”
Scatter these unique pieces throughout the room, and plan trips so you can accrue more in the future.
4. Branding in Every Room
When your brand is associated with quality, it will automatically bring high-end clients to your business. Using décor to magnify your brand will also boost your reputation.
“Even if you work from a home office, you can find ways to “brandify” your space that inspire you,” says Ivana Taylor, marketing advisor for American Express. “Your work surroundings should remind you of the marketing message and image that you intend to project… If you create an office that reflects who you are as a brand and as a business, you’ll project that to your customers. If your marketing purpose is to have your ideal customer choose you, then make sure that their experience inside your place reflects what’s important to them and projects your confidence in delivering it.”
Branding is everything for a company trying to prove themselves to a wealthier clientele. It’s the small details that will tie your office together and leave an excellent impression on everyone who walks through the door.
