A Welcoming Entry
Is your firm accessible to your clients, consultants, vendors? While physically visiting your office may not be as necessary as it once was, you should still consider its accessibility, when needed.
It’s no mystery that offices or buildings without free parking are likely cheaper in rent than those with on-site parking. This can be especially true when you choose a more urban office location. Free parking is usually limited and even paid parking may be at a minimum. When evaluating location, if physical accessibility to your firm is required, as it is for most retail stores, for example, consider places near public parking lots or, at a minimum, metered parking. The easier you can make it for people to reach you, the more positive your visitor experiences should be.
If your specific service or product does not require a downtown or urban location, consider first ring suburban options. Often, these will come with on-site parking. Additionally, side street parking on residential streets can be an excellent option. Just be sure to drive around and note any parking restrictions. Suburban office parks can also present an easy access to your office.
If your chosen location does not have parking and it is challenging to ask others to add extra time to find parking, make sure their visit is worth their time. Offer free cold water with limes or lemons. Offer lemonade or limeade or tea or coffee. This doesn’t have to be fancy but the effort to provide a reward for visiting you may go a long way.
Past visits to a favorite client included looking forward to their candy basket at the entry way. These weren’t free mints. They included brand name tasty candies. They would even encourage you take some for your return trip home. It is always nice to be offered something for your time and effort.
Do a convenience check the next time you access your office. If people trying to locate your space are required to find off-site parking and spend extra time just to reach you, make it worth their time. Free refreshments can make for a positive visit and a reason to make a return visit.
Be well.
