Making (unforgettable) first impressions

The reception area is usually the first thing you see when entering an office. And as psychologists are quick to tell us, first impressions not only matter, they last. Here’s how to ensure that your reception area makes a positive first impression.

Judging something on first impressions isn’t a myth – it’s scientifically proven. Research from psychologists at Princeton University revealed that it takes us just one tenth of a second to form first impressions of strangers’ faces, and that these first impressions aren’t easily changed once made. 

So, how can you make your office reception area as welcoming as possible, to ensure that the first impressions of visitors or customers are positive ones? 

We believe that the answer to this lies in combining some old knowledges, and some new findings

1. Biophilia: our innate tendency to seek connections with nature, which is a concept that’s been around since the 1970’s, and
2. Rentokil Initial’s 2021 global hygiene research: which shone a light on changing expectations of a hygienic workplace. 

Let me elaborate on how these two pieces of information are not only related, but can ensure that you make a great first impression.

Going green

Incorporating biophilic design principles – tapping into humans’ innate need to connect with nature – could be part of the answer to fostering memorable first impressions. Simply put, the biophilia hypothesis tells us what we already know: connecting with nature makes us happier and healthier.

So why not utilise this innate affinity for nature by incorporating plants (an aesthetically pleasing addition) to any entrance or reception area?

Incorporating large potted plants at the entrance, combined with smaller plants on the reception desk itself is a great place to start for an instantly natural feel.

Making hygiene second nature

But let’s take that one step further… imagine if we could combine our need to connect with nature with changing expectations from employees and consumers regarding visible hygiene.

In September 2021 Rentokil Initial released a new hygiene report, The Global Hygiene Reset, examining the Coronavirus pandemic’s influence on people’s behaviour, expectations, and attitudes towards hygiene.

We surveyed 20,000 people across 20 countries – including South Africa – to build a global perspective. Unsurprisingly, we found that hygiene concerns have been increased by the pandemic, with 71% of respondents concerned about whether a venue has adequate measures in place to stop the spread of germs, and 84% of respondents feeling that it’s important that employers prioritise creating safe and hygienic environments.

Biophilia meets Hygiene

So why not make a great first impression by addressing those hygiene concerns immediately, as employees, visitors, or guests enter your reception? And why not do it by combining the beauty and benefits of a living plant with the functionality of a hand sanitiser?

Our Sanigreen plant stand hand sanitiser unit provides visible reassurance that hygiene protocols are being taken seriously, while feeding our need for a connection with nature.

First impressions – best impressions?

The reception area is the face of the office, so it’s important to ensure it represents the company’s values and feels welcoming.

By incorporating biophilic design elements and people’s need for more visible hygiene protocols and assurances, you’ll be sure to create positive and lasting first impressions of your business.