When business owners think of ways to make their workspace or office building more inviting, they usually focus on interior design efforts. While these elements are important for welcoming clientele and improving employee morale, first impressions start not at the doorway, but from the street.
Unfortunately, options are limited for improving an office building’s exterior appeal if you rent property or the people around you take a nonchalant approach. There are however different things you can do to improve your curb appeal, regardless of your situation.
Maintenance and Garbage Control
The most important thing to do to make your office building more appealing is to ensure the area isn’t covered with garbage. Not only does uncontrolled litter make your business look like trash, it can attract rats and other unwanted pests, further devaluing your reputation and appearance.
If your landlord or neighbors aren’t taking the initiative to control the problem, you should consider taking the matter into your own hands. Hire someone to clean up the area or rent proper garbage disposal materials. Cherry Hill dumpsters come in different sizes, with prices as low as $150 per month. This is a worthy investment if it means not losing business, and you may be able to stick your landlord with a part of the bill.
Subtle Landscaping Touches
If your business is located in an urban center, your landscaping options may be few and far between. However, you can use potted trees and plants to breathe some life into your entryway and create a welcoming urban oasis. If space and budget allow, you can even incorporate a green wall. Not only will a living green wall help improve your curb appeal, it does wonders for the environment– a definite plus if you position yourself as an environmentally friendly company.
What About Your Windows?
What kind of windows does your office building have? If you have glass walls, you can do your due diligence to ensure they are kept clean and sparkly. If you have small, residential windows, use plants and lighting to create a warm, welcoming feeling when someone looks up from the street. Ensure you have policies regarding what employees are allowed to display on their window sills– it’s the little touches that make a big difference.
Invite Them In
Add a feature that invites clients and potential customers to come visit. A sandwich board with an entertaining quip or artistic lettering can be an eye-catching way to attract positive attention. A sign by the door can let people know that they’re in the right place if your building is nondescript.
Some businesses try to capture the feeling of a residential, small business despite their corporate setting. One way of doing this is by adding a rustic-style welcome mat to the front door. Potted plants and brightly painted doors are also inviting.
Parking Lot Maintenance
If you have a parking lot attached to your business, ensuring the lines are painted and holes are filled is of the utmost importance. If you are in a rental complex, be sure to address these issues before signing your lease. Otherwise, advocate on behalf of your customers. It might help to do a quick sweep each morning to see if there is anything that could harm your customers or their vehicles and promptly remove the issue or flag it.
A Coat of Fresh Paint
Never underestimate the powers of a coat of fresh paint. If you have wooden steps or a deck leading up to your door, make sure it is well maintained and touched up every couple of months. Even something as subtle as the trim around the doorframe can have a significant impact on your curb appeal. Mailboxes, light fixtures, ceramic pots, and any other features you display should be kept clean and freshly painted.
We may be taught not to judge a book by its cover, but people will always judge a building by its facade. Don’t lose business over something a coat of paint would fix.
