A Warm Welcome

The importance of a warm welcome cant be overstated. It is often the first impression visitors have of you and your organisation so its worth remembering the following points:

• The reception area should be clearly signposted, and must be accessible so that wheelchair learners can enter and exit without encountering any narrow passageways or furniture.
• Ensure you provide adequate waiting space for several members at one time. Even if the reception desk is not manned at all times visitors should not feel intimidated by the experience.
• Have well presented, informative and relevant literature to browse through.
• The reception desk should not act as a barrier between you and your customer, so make every effort to install one which fit into the overall look and feel of the furniture.
• Staff should be receptive to visitors coming and going. People are often reluctant to ask for information if it seems too difficult. Ensure your staff are on hand to meet, greet and offer friendly advice. They should have all the relevant resources near at hand
• And remember, the welcome area is your opportunity to showcase what you do, so think about what you advertise and how you advertise it. If budget allows a flat panel screen linked to a PC can be a great welcome resource.