Appearences Matter

The first impression most people get about a professional is not from that person. In fact, it's generally from a collection of inanimate objects - the furniture in the office!

That's right. When the door of an office opens, generally the first thing a potential client sees is a not the professional they're seeking, but that person's entryway, waiting room or reception area.

To make sure that first impression counts, even on a budget, it's a good idea make sure the furniture that will be involved in the "first sighting" sends the right message. What exactly that message is will be entirely up to the office owner, but it better be a good one!

Boring, basic and even a little grungy might speak to an auto shop's hard-working mentality, but it won't do for a real estate agent.

Buying furniture for an office is a big undertaking. Every detail needs to be considered from the size of the desk or desks to the color of the chairs.

Should you find yourself working on less than a shoestring budget to buy the furniture, here are some ideas for accents you can employ to make even the most boring desks, chairs and tables send the right message.

• Wall coverings - Be certain to paint the walls accordingly. Basic white might work in some cases, but to send a strong message without spending a fortune, consider an appropriate color.
  
• Accent art - A picture can in fact say a 1,000 words. Conservative traditional art is great for lawyers and doctors, but architects and designers might want something a bit more bold and whimsical.
  
• Chair/seat covers - If you have to buy a chair you don't like the appearance of to fit your budget, consider covering it. You can find "rich" appointments for a steal and a recover job isn't really all that difficult. If you can cut and use a staple gun, you should be all set.
  
• Smart arrangement - Even the most expensive and high-end office furniture will look awful if it's all jumbled together. Arrange for an open, functional yet warm feeling and no matter what field you're in and you'll be on the right track.

Making that first impression is something you only get one chance to do. Office furniture can help you make a great one, even if your budget leaves a lot to be desired. Employ some creativity and you'll find the sky is the limit when it comes to designing a functional, yet motivating office environment.