With the summer heat in full swing, now is the perfect time to take your business outdoors! Setting up a comfortable outdoor office space for your customers is a great way to beat the heat while still providing them with the excellent service they deserve. According to a study by the University of Michigan, people who work outdoors are more productive and have better mental health than those who don’t.
Let’s look at how to build the perfect outdoor office space for your customers.
Find the Right Location
The first step in setting up an outdoor office space is to find the right location. The location of your outdoor office space should be easily accessible for your customers and have enough shade to keep them cool. If possible, try to find an area with a view of nature or some other type of scenery. This will help your customers relax and feel more comfortable while waiting for their appointment.
It would help if you also looked at the noise level of the area you’re considering. If it’s too noisy, your customers might have difficulty hearing you on the phone or concentrating on their work. Try to find a place near nature, with trees and other plants that can help muffle noise. If you can’t find a location that meets these criteria, consider setting up a temporary outdoor office space with a canopy or tent.
Remove Potential Hazards
When setting up an outdoor office space, it is vital to remove any potential hazards. This includes things like trip hazards, loose cords, and sharp objects. You should also ensure the area is free of insects and other pests. If you’re setting up your office space in an area with many trees, you should also be aware of the possibility of falling branches. Hiring professional tree services to remove any dead or dangerous branches is an excellent way to reduce the risk of injury.
Also, don’t forget to secure loose items that could blow away in the wind. This includes things like papers, pens, and other office supplies. You don’t want your customers’ belongings to end up in a neighbor’s yard! Tie down any loose items or store them in a safe place until they’re needed.
Choose the Right Furniture
Once you have found the perfect location for your outdoor office space, it is time to start thinking about furniture. The furniture you choose should be comfortable and durable. It should also be easy to clean and maintain. If you are working with a limited budget, you can always look for used furniture or furniture that you can repurpose from other areas of your business.
Because outdoor spaces can be exposed to the elements, choosing furniture that can withstand heat, cold, and rain is essential. Look for furniture made from materials like aluminum, wicker, or teak. These materials are not only durable, but they are also stylish and can help create a more inviting space for your customers.
It would be best if you also considered the comfort of your customers when choosing furniture. Look for chairs with cushions and ottomans that can be used as footrests. If you are working with a small space, you can always look for furniture that you can stack or fold when not in use.
Create a Relaxing Atmosphere
The atmosphere of your outdoor office space is just as important as its location and furniture. You should ensure that the area is well-lit and free of distractions. You may also consider adding some plants or flowers to help create a more relaxing atmosphere. If you have the budget, you could add a water feature such as a small fountain or pond.
Some businesses also choose to add music to their outdoor office space. This can help create a more relaxing atmosphere for your customers. However, you should ensure the music is not too loud or disruptive. You should also consider the type of music you play. Choose music that is calming and relaxing, such as classical or jazz.
Have a backup plan
Even if you take all of the necessary precautions, there is always a chance that bad weather could ruin your outdoor office space. That’s why it’s important to have a backup plan. If you know there is a chance of rain, you should have space indoors where your customers can work. This could be a conference room, lounge, or even your own office.
You should also have a plan for dealing with extreme heat or cold. This could include setting up fans or heaters in your outdoor office space. You should also have blankets and umbrellas in case of inclement weather.
Creating a comfortable outdoor office space for your customers is a great way to break the monotony of office space. By following these simple tips, you can provide your customers with an enjoyable experience that they will remember long after their appointment. Always remember to have a backup plan in case of bad weather, and your outdoor office space will be a success!
