Best foot forward
Ideally, your facility generates interest from passersby. Noses pressed up against the glass is a terrific goal-really the ultimate in curb appeal, I'd say.
I deally, your facility generates interest from passersby. Noses pressed up against the glass is a terrific goal—really the ultimate in curb appeal, I'd say. It sure looks as though potential clients walk by New York Cat Hospital, in New York, and think, is a practice I'd like to get to know better." Who wouldn't like their business to make that kind of first impression?
Marnette Denell Falley
Clients and potential clients feel like they're getting to know you better with every step they take through your facility. But when you work there every day, it can be easy to overlook little flaws that might be telling them, "We just don't care that much about the details" and ignore the projects you know you should do but simply don't have time for. Even the relatively easy stuff—like painting or installing new reception furniture or countertops—takes commitment. No one likes their days to be disrupted. And yes, it often costs money.
But it's worth the investment to draw clients' eyes your way and make a good impression when they walk through your door. Your facility sends strong messages. It could be the best marketing tool you have. And you and your team members work there every day, after all. I bet you could do some little things that would improve the environment for you, too.
So, take a look at the strategies your colleagues have used to make their space speak for them. And think about what project you would put at the top of your list. When you're done, send us pictures ...
Marnette Denell Falley, Editor
P.S. If you're thinking of taking on a project that involves something more complicated—moving walls, adding on, building from scratch—check out the Veterinary Economics Hospital Design Conference in Kansas City, Mo., Sept. 12 to 14 in conjunction with CVC Central. For more, visit www.thecvc.com/hd.
Situated on a well-traveled street corner en route to Riverside Park, New York Cat Hospital makes the most of its cheery, sunny cat boarding ward by putting it front and center, where fun feline antics attract dozens of visitors every day.
