Let's face it, nobody likes waiting, whatever the circumstances. But in clinics, beauty salons, and many offices, a bit of waiting time for clients, customers and visitors is to be expected.
Just because waiting time is an accepted part of your business, however, it doesn't mean you can't make it a positive experience. It's all about making the waiting area as pleasant as possible.
In businesses where maintaining the right image is important, you'll want your waiting area to be as classy and comfortable as it can be. So don't just concentrate on everywhere else in your premises, neglecting the waiting space. Make it stunning with these tips.
Decide on a colour scheme
Before you get started, think about the colours you'd like to use, so you don't end up with a mixed up mess. You might go for something grand and traditional, with dark woods and bold reds or deep greens, or perhaps a minimalist contemporary setting in white with pale colour accents. Avoid anything too overpowering, and refrain from making the room feel dark: it will make your guests uncomfortable as they wait.
Seating
Do away with mismatched threadbare second-hand armchairs and sofas, and most definitely don't bother with hard, uncomfortable plastic seating with no cushions. You want people to feel at home when they're in your waiting room, and it needs to look amazing. Nowadays, you might be surprised at how attractive bench seating can be. It's convenient, can fit right in with your design scheme, and is nice to sit on. Perfect.
Furniture
You don't want the room to feel crowded, so keep it simple. A small bookcase or magazine rack plus a coffee table is really all you need.
Reading material
Instead of the usual tatty magazines from five years ago, minimise what's provided. Subscribe to a couple of magazines relevant to your business, get a daily newspaper or two, and get rid of any old copies. For something different, you could also get some coffee table books and classic literature for people to leaf through.
Refreshments
A water cooler is the standard way to slake people's thirst, but if you want something really classy, invest in a large pitcher and provide fresh, iced, fruit-infused water. Just make sure it's replaced regularly.
Extra touches
Don't be tempted to go overboard with paintings and prints. Art is a personal thing, so choose very simple pieces that complement the colours of your room, and don't go for anything outlandish or brash. A vase of fresh or dried flowers provides an additional attractive element.
