An article I wrote for Millo, an American blog for creative freelancers and entrepreneurs.
As a freelancer, just being good at your job is not a guarantee for getting clients.
Sooner or later, we all realize that it takes a lot more than just being talented or creative to find success in freelancing.
Although, blogs such as Millo do a great service to freelancers out there in helping them polish up their skills and knowledge – I’ve noticed that only a few lines are written about the crucial impact of a well-designed office space when it comes to attracting quality clients.
Whether meeting a client in a physical office or communicating via a Skype call, the workspace essentially plays an important role in helping you sell your products/services more easily.
Yes, from a client’s perspective, all they need is to get the job done. And that may be right to an extent.
For instance, while working with a web designer, you might think the client won’t mind his/her poor taste in decoration as long as quality web designing services are given!
Well, it’s not that simple!
Most marketers and advertisers know very well that the context or package is often more important than the product itself.
It’s all in the visuals
According to Kissmetrics, 9 out of 10 people are visually influenced when making a purchase.
We tend to make choices based on emotions. We do that every single day, even if we think we don’t.
I’ll give you an example.
Would you be willing to spend $100 on your favorite perfume if it was offered in a cheap disposable plastic bottle even if you were assured the actual perfume inside was exactly the same?
If you actually do go ahead and buy the perfume, you will surely be expecting a considerable discount!
So, why are you so interested in the package and the bottle, when you are only going to use what’s inside them? Now, just think of your workspace as the package of your services and be honest while answering the following questions:
- Do the quality services you offer to your clients have the “package” they deserve?
- How would you evaluate your work environment? Would you give it an A or a D?
- How do you feel in your workspace, are there things you want to change?
I know it’s not at all easy to be objective with your own place but your visitors’ first reactions are a good indicator.
It’s easier if you try to imagine what your thoughts and assumptions would be while visiting another professional’s workplace. Perhaps as following:
- old and poorly maintained, uncomfortable furniture,
- tables and bookshelves covered with dust,
- walls with dull, depressive colors or whose original shades are difficult to tell,
- plants suffering from dehydration,
- Venetian blinds and windows, which haven’t been cleaned for years
- and all these items just placed there by accident, without any plan!
I hope I haven’t described your office!
Even if I have, this can change and I’ll help you do it!
Making a great first impression
There is no doubt that first impressions are crucial.
Meeting your prospective clients in your office gives you a great advantage to play by your own rules. You must create a ‘scene’ that will help you play your “professional role” perfectly.
Read the full article at Millo.co
Design for Happiness 
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