Working from home can be more convenient for many people. The problem becomes when you want to have clients visit you at your home office. Here are some tips to give your clients a good first impression.
Give Clear Directions
Make sure to give your clients clear directions on how to find you. This means that you need to consider the parking situation at your home. Advise your clients on the best place to park their vehicles. You might even want to designate client parking spaces in your driveway. Have a marked path to your home office if there is a separate entrance from your home. Make the path to your office warm and inviting. You don’t want your clients to get the wrong impression about you.
Create a Professional Space
Your home office should look professional to impress your clients. Invest in wood shutters to provide privacy and elegance. Purchase a desk and comfortable chairs that are similar to a traditional office setting. Pay attention to your décor items. Use items sparingly so that it doesn’t look cluttered. Select pieces that are appropriate and respectful for your clients. Simple and tasteful items may be the best fit for your business model. If your office is only accessible through your home, make sure to set the tone as soon as they enter. Select tasteful pieces of art for your walls.
Maintain Cleanliness and Organization
Maintain a clean and organized environment. A messy desk can send the message that you’re a scattered person. You want to project the image of the professional business person. The outside of your home will also create an impression on your clients. Keep your yard well landscaped. You might want to invest in a little bit of curb appeal so that clients start the meeting off right. Any parts of your home that are visible should also be well maintained and clean. You only get one chance to make a first impression.
Eliminate the Distractions
Children and pets can often interrupt you at the worst possible time. Make sure to find a way to eliminate the distractions that they present. This may mean that they’re segregated to another part of your home. You want to create an environment that is quiet so that you can focus on your client. Distractions can make the client less likely to want to work with you in the future. They may be turned off so much that they take their business somewhere else.
You have to take some extra time when your home office is open to your clients. Use a second set of eyes so that you make the right impression.
