A professional live reception desk is a key component in the overall impression that visitors have of an office. A front desk receptionist can set a positive tone, greet visitors with a smile, answer questions, and direct guests to the proper locations within your organization. Having the right front desk furniture is essential in this role, as it must not only look good but be functional as well.
There are five distinct shapes of receptionist workstations: rectangular, L shaped, U shaped, curved, and T shaped. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, but all can provide a quality workspace for a receptionist to work from. The majority of receptionist workstations are built with commercial grade laminate, which offers a sturdy and strong alternative to traditional wood affordable call answering solutions desks and furniture. Using this material also reduces manufacturing costs and shipping expenses, making it an excellent choice for any budget.
Many modern office reception desks will have metal framing, which can help with durability and longevity. This feature is especially important when it comes to the top of the desk, which may be subject to heavy use and impact from visitors. Most tops are designed to resist scratches, burns, and water spills.
Reception desks must also be designed to withstand the rigors of daily operations in a busy office environment. This can mean a high-pressure laminate finish to resist stains, or a thick and durable top with anti-static properties. Other details, such as a stainless steel base or frame, can also add strength and durability to a reception area.
The type of materials used in a receptionist workstation can also make a difference to the aesthetics and price of the furniture. There are many options to choose from, including the use of natural wood stain colors, as well as modern laminate. Using these finishes can give a more classic appearance to the reception desk, while avoiding the expense of custom woodwork.
While the COVID-19 pandemic has led many organizations to remove their staff from the lobby area, having a live person available at all times can still be a huge benefit for visitors. However, having a staff member at the reception desk can be inefficient, particularly when they must step away from their station for bathroom breaks and lunch. With virtual receptionist solutions like Virtual Front Desk, you can optimize front desk operations while enabling your staff to work remotely.
Regardless of the shape of your office, the reception desk is still an important part of the space, and needs to be designed to meet your specific requirements. This includes determining how many people will be working from the reception area, what type of workstation space you require for each of them, and whether there will be any privacy screens required. Then you can select the best reception desk to complement your office design and provide a great first impression for any visitors that arrive.