Optimising your reception area

Do you like what’s in your waiting room? Would you buy the items there? Do you know about them, have used them and could advise a client?

If the answer to any of these questions is “NO”, then it’s time to re-think what you’re selling.

I see many veterinary waiting rooms and most are crammed with stuff: cat collars, toys, chews, treats, food, AVM-GSL products. Some have clothes for pets, some have a dental promotion or a charity poster board – sometimes you can’t even see the receptionist!

What does your reception say about you?

• Busy
• Cluttered
• Clean?
• Informed
• Helpful
• Professional

Keeping it simple helps.

• Only stock what you would be happy to buy for your own pets.
• Ask other staff members what products they think should stay and what should go.
• Check your sales – what actually sells?
• Contact companies for product info to support any campaigns you may be participating in.
• Leaflets tend to clutter up an area and have been proven to have a limited effect in increasing purchases.
• Consider investing in digital displays.

Is it more important the client sees a clean spacious waiting area or a display of spangly cat collars? What would you prefer as the image of your practice?

Pictures of waiting rooms eagerly awaited!