Understand why cherishing your workspace makes all the difference
If you've been following me around here, you know that I am someone who believes in the importance of carefully planning how we spend the hours we are given every day.
In another article, I talked about how I organize my schedules to not only contribute to the well-being of those I serve, but also to take care of my personal development and, of course, to have moments of peace, fun and affection with my family.
How does this relate to our workplace? Honestly, it is very related!
I believe that the workspace we use to serve our clients, colleagues and students needs to communicate everything we are, what moves us and how we want to present ourselves to the world.
I will talk more deeply about it in the following sections. If it interests you, stick around!
Make a good first impression
No matter how much we try to deny it, we are led to a series of perceptions when we contact a professional.
A workspace that is disorganized, fails to meet the hygiene requirements expected for public contact or in any way does not convey professionalism, tends to push us away.
On the other hand, when we are surprised by an excellent service the moment we step into a space, receive genuine attention from a team of specialists, and have no doubts about the quality of the services provided, we will always return.
Not only that, but we will make a point to spread the word to people in our circle that we have received exceptional care.
In the age of the internet, spontaneous social media posts, Google reviews, and comments can make all the difference for a business.
This alone would be enough to understand why it is so important to value a clean, organized work environment that aligns with what you offer and is staffed by competent professionals. However, that's just the tip of the iceberg.
The customer experience is transformed
When you work with the public, it is important to be open and welcoming to the people who visit your space. Sometimes they may become reactive or agitated when interacting with the public. Instead of acting in the same way, we must remember the whole context surrounding us.
What do I mean by that? If my space is created to “welcome" those who enter, it is important to prioritize elements that communicate accessibility, kindness, and calmness.
If they speak to us rapidly or aggressively, for example, we must respond with attention while also guiding them towards a calmer state of behavior. A well-designed workplace helps us quickly achieve our goals in serving those who seek our services.
A tip, from the bottom of my heart: study theories related to colors and smells. Choosing the colors that will be a part of your daily life and team uniform is not solely a matter of personal preference. Colors can communicate and generate acceptance or insecurity.
Similarly, smells have a direct impact on our receptiveness, relaxation, and well-being. Although these details seem small, they can greatly collaborate to make the customer experience even more positive. Everything you offer as “the best" is perceived as an attitude of respect, excellence, and consideration.
Are you staying true to your purpose?
The biggest reason to pay attention to your workplace is just that: to be fair to your dreams and life purpose.
As I have said before, I believe that what our profession is not merely to “make a living”, but rather an opportunity to positively impact the lives of those who are benefited by our skills, by enhancing their quality of life, happiness, and comfort.
There are those who believe that an individual is not capable of changing anything, but I personally disagree with this.
There is a famous saying that the flutter of a butterfly's wings can cause an earthquake on the other side of the world, and I like to interpret it in the best possible way.
Everything we do with the intention of changing what does not cause happiness is genuine, impactful and deserves our attention. These are the thoughts that come to mind every morning when I wake up to go to work, prepare my space, and ensure that it is ready to welcome and serve people in the best way possible.
People make me happy.
Without them, I would have no craft, but beyond that, I would have no reason to continue, improve myself and create more. The existence of people, their satisfaction and joy drive me. And that's my purpose.
If you found this text to be helpful in any way, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. I would love to hear your thoughts on it and understand how you personally connect with your workplace.
Best regards,
Priscila Iwama