First Impressions

What's the first thing you notice when you walk into a business, restaurant or home? What do you see? Do you see a place that’s inviting, or a place that needs work? Is what you see professional-looking, hip, trendy, or is it disorganized and outdated? Does what you see meet or exceed your expectations, or are you disappointed?

First impressions are critical to the success of any organization, but all too often businesses fall short, allowing maintenance of their most precious assets to decline. As a business owner or CEO you should always evaluate all aspects of your visually perceived model and give your company the guidance to thrive in an ever-competitive marketplace.

Upgrades to your facility could be the game changer you need! In simple terms, most people buy a new car every three to five years, yet they’ll sleep on that same lumpy mattress at home for ten to fifteen years, or walk by the same old sofa and chairs placed on worn-out flooring in the company lobby or office space, blinded by what they see everyday, and perceive to be suitable. The way your space looks and feels reflects how you feel about your company, whether you choose to acknowledge it or not.

Unfortunately, most businesses are slow to reinvest profit into capital improvementsimprovements to revitalize your business that could be that game changer I earlier referred to. A quick facelift to your business, be it flooring, paint, lighting or art, could give your business a new fresh look that will bring in more clientele and create new referrals driving your profits to new levels. Simple changes can also mean giving your business a new feel. Small projects like new shelving or additional display spaces can have great impacts on how a customer feels about doing business with you.

The hardest part in fixing first impressions is realizing and admitting that unfortunately things have slipped away little by little, day by day. Do you have the expertise you need? Are you taking the leap to further your future successes? As a business owner, ask yourself if your business has a positive perception. Does it portray an outstanding first impression that will grow your business, helping you to achieve future goals?

At the end of the day, we want our clients and patrons to go back to their offices and homes talking about our businesses! Word of mouth is still a very valuable asset in today’s ever-changing marketplace. Social media, and the posts associated with current sites used on a daily basis, can be a game changer.

A first impression can change your day. You're the only one in control of that first impression. Put yourself and your employees in the driver's seat of success. Change and uplift those things to give a positive experience to customers and employees alike. The smallest improvements will yield high rewards if you know what you're looking for.

So, roll up those sleeves, throw out those old chairs! Clean off that reception area! Be in charge of how you're perceived. Make a great first impression!