What Your Office Space Says About You

Have you ever walked into someone else’s office and noticed little things that give you an indication of the sort of person they are?  Does your desk space say “Caution: finding that file is going to take a while” or “Professional employee works here”? Not only is your office space a direct representation on you but also the business you represent. This ranges not only from your desk but also the décor of the space.  Read on to identify the most common office space mistakes and tips to improve them.  

Is your office décor dedicated solely to images of you and awards you have received?
This is a tricky one to tackle, it is great to be proud of your activities and the awards you have worked hard to achieve, and it is a great way to personalise your space. However, it can often be intimidating for anyone entering in your office, especially if your organisation is about team work. On the upside you should have a couple of personal photos and the diploma you slaved away for, just find a balance.


Is your desk covered in documents and sticky-note reminders?
We never really notice how cluttered our desks can become covered in sticky-notes until someone points them out. Although sticky-notes are a great way to write that quick little reminder for your 2PM lunch on Friday, so is the reminder and calendar app in your smart phone and it doesn’t leave a mess. Be wary of leaving unfinished documents lying around your desk as they can leave the impression that you are unorganised, try to start a folder that stores all unfinished work in the one place.


Is your office space inviting for existing and potential clients?
When you have meetings in your office or invite new clients for negotiations, do you sit with a desk between you? Although in the traditional sense this works, however it can be taken as impersonal and intimidating to the visitor. If your office space is big enough you should try to incorporate a couch or ottoman as it is a more relaxed environment for meetings. Round tables are great for negotiations as they do not segregate two people to either sides of a table or put an obstacle between them.


Is your desk covered in images and plans for your next holiday?
We all know how exciting it is to plan a holiday overseas or even just away for the weekend, it is a distracting and enjoyable alternative to work. However, if these remnants are left on your desk it can leave the impression that you are more invested in where your next holiday will be rather than the business meeting you have planned for tomorrow.  


Do you have plants or a pet in your office?
If so make sure they always look healthy. There is no use having a plant in your office if it is wilted and brown and the same goes for a fish bowl with so much algae that you can't even see the fish. Plants and pets are a great way for your office space to give off a more positive aesthetic message, just make sure they are maintained. 
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