Even so, it’s hard not to judge a business by its reception area, just as you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. Visitor’s first impression may be of the reception area of your business. You can be sure that they will form an opinion about your company based on what’s in front of them while they’re waiting. There are many oversights that could mess up the start of your next meeting, including soiled floor and cluttered counters.

Here are 4 Tips to Keep Your Reception Area Tidy

Making a memorable first impression on prospective customers and employees begins with an inviting reception area. Our office cleaning experts have come up with four office cleaning tips you can use to keep your reception area in good shape.

1. Clear the space

Visitors will not feel comfortable in a cluttered, crowded reception area. A cramped workspace will indicate a disorganized company, which may be reflected negatively in your business. There are some steps you can take to make your reception feel larger even if small and medium sized businesses don’t have the budget for a large, elegant waiting area:

• Make sure that your reception area does not double as a storage area for files, stationery and other equipment. Find an alternative storage area or hidden solution to this dilemma.
• You shouldn’t saturate your reception with magazines – While a few business-appropriate magazines show your company is on top of things (and are diverting), take care not to overstuff your reception with publications. Keep your collection small and regularly updated.
• Don’t put up a reception desk – If your area is too small for a desk, consider having a mounted tablet where guests can sign in.

Reduce the amount of furniture in your reception area. In order to maximize your reception space, downsize reception furniture to a few sleek, simple chairs so that guests won’t have to wait long for their appointments.

2. Get rid of stale smells

In an open-plan office environment, workplace smells, like coffee, snacks and lunches packed in food flasks and plastic containers, are unavoidable. Smells can have a substantial impact on a visitor’s first impression of a business, so reduce them as much as possible in your reception area. To keep your reception area smelling pleasant, avoid consuming food in the reception area and nearby areas, and consider using an air freshener. This entrance space might benefit from a few simple transparent glass covering that will provide more privacy for your employees.

3. Floors are the focus

It is likely that employees will pass through the reception area on their way to and from their desks. Hoovering, sweeping, or mopping may be necessary more frequently in your reception area. To prevent mud and debris from damaging your reception area, make sure you install a bootscraper and an effective doormat. Also, consider more frequent floor cleaning of this area.

4. Providing amenities

It is essential to have a small waste bin and a small recycling bin at the reception desk. Visitors can discard rubbish conveniently by using these amenities, which prevents waste from being left behind. You might also consider installing a water dispenser in your waiting area to enhance comfort.

Action Point

Maintain a regular cleaning schedule that pays special attention to your reception area. We have been providing outstanding office cleaning services across Nigeria for over 20 years. You can reach us at 0803 620 8815 to learn more about our services.