How to create an office that makes you more money

Imagine going into your office and sitting with a client dressed in your pajamas. How would you feel? It’s likely that you wouldn’t feel professional, and lets face it your game would be off. You wouldn’t be able to put your best foot forward, and really sell your offerings with confidence. (not with felt scooby pants) Same goes with your surroundings. Even if you dont have a lot of money, your work space should be THE BEST that you can afford, because it is what EARNS your living.

When you walk into your dirty office filled with scattered paper, mismatched furniture, no inspiring art, and scratched walls, you are likely to feel dirty, scattered and uninspiried.

Now take that same space, put a lovely coat of paint on the walls, a fantastic chair (like wearing the right kind of sexy heels) inspiring photos of art or family, and surround yourself with accessories that hold meaning to you. THIS space holds an entirely different energy. This energy and the entrepreneur inside of it is uplifted, inspired, motivated and going to work to work. Big difference.

Interiors play a big role in our productivity, especially our office. When we are in a great space it lifts our confidence and we become stronger, more assertive business owners. It gives us credence rather than uncertainty. Even if it is just a small desk in the kitchen make every effort to make that “your” space. It will change the dynamic of how you run and operate your business, your household your non-profit…whatever it is. I have been doing this for 12 years and seen it over and over again. If you feel like a rockstar you perform like one too.

5 things to shake up your money maker

1) Lighting

A great lamp

Choose a lamp that not only provides good light but adds decoration to your desk. Don’t choose a lamp that has a bent frame, leans, or eats through bulbs. A beautiful lamp with great color provides a lovely glow and puts you in a good mood.

2) Window treatment

iPhoto

A simple valance is a great way to draw the eye up, add some color and decorate the window. Many clients I see neglect their windows and they are such a great window of opportunity! (har!) The point is, use what ever you got, a shower curtain, table cloth or a scrap of fabric left over from something else and use it to add some style. Don’t ever have naked windows!

3) Accessories

Accessories

Add beautiful accessories around your space. Choose things that suit your profession and personality. When you surround yourself with beautiful things you feel remarkably well. You honor the space differently than you would a scattered mismatched space. PJs vs J Crew.

4) Art

Art

Quite simply the easiest and fastest way to make your space posh, add art…BIG art. (GO BIG, OR GO HOME) It’s no secret that I love art, add a large 48 x 48 piece behind your desk and your space is instantly ready for business.

5) Indulge in the little things

Indulge

As an interior designer and lifestyle expert it is my job to point out the details. When it comes to your office the little things are what make the difference. Have a cup of tea in a vintage cup. Use a cloth napkin when you break for lunch. Enjoy snacks like fruit, or crackers from beautiful thrift store plates. Have a diet coke in an antique wine glass. Small things make a big difference and make your office feel decadent and self indulgent. Cha-ching!

I just wrapped up an interview with Carla Kroger, from Daily Administration on this very subject yesterday. Stay tuned for the link to the recording!

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Comments

Debbie Bittke says:

Wednesday,January 25,2012 at 10:29 pm

Amanda,

Perfect timing on this! I need to update my office space. Great ideas! Thank you for writing and sharing! Very helpful!

Debbie

Donna Frasca says:

Thursday,January 26,2012 at 4:57 pm

My office is a little of both – somewhat neat yet somewhat unruly. I find my mind comes to a halt when things are too neat. The “light” disarray usually inspires me somehow. Just like to be surrounded by color swatches, paint brushes, cameras and paper. I find that as soon as I straighten my office, it somehow bounces back to the same look.

Barbara says:

Monday,January 30,2012 at 8:42 pm

Great ideas! And some changes could only do a lot of good to my home office! I love that art work and the accessories!