What Signals Are You Sending?

DPHA members that remember Don Schmincke's keynote address at the first DPHA Annual Conference will recall he related that every showroom has symbols that have meaning to owners, staff and clients.  There are also symbols and signals that demonstrate general attitudes and feelings of your team members.  Imagine that you were interviewing for a job at your showroom. When you walk in, how would you be greeted?  Would it be warm and cordial, cool and aloof, or nothing at all?  Employees who chat casually with one another and the receptionist reflect a warm environment, according to Liane Davey, author of You First:  Inspire Your Team to Grow Up, Get Along and Get Stuff Done. 

 

What does your kitchen say about your showroom?  Is the sink clogged with dirty dishes?  If so, you may be sending the message that no one cares about cleanliness or the common area condition.  Are there passive aggressive notes attached to food containers in the fridge? Is there food still there from a team member who left the organization many months ago?  Do you have someone who is responsible for kitchen clean up?   

 

Do you allow your team to personalize their space with photos of family and friends, favorite sports team trinkets, flowers and plants?  Doing so better engages team members and encourages them to bring their whole selves to work, claims Davey. If you allow team members to personalize their areas and they don't, they may actually be sending a message that they really are not engaged in your organization.  

 

The restroom in a showroom typically doubles as another display or vignette. Is the ambience compromised by signage that may remind people to avoid flushing paper towels or disposing of other items that may cause clogs.  If you have a sign similar to that in your restroom, ask yourself if it is really necessary. 

 

What messages are you sending to your staff and customers if you outfit your restrooms with nice towels, superior hand soap, moisturizer and feminine hygiene products?  To many, the message is that you care about your team and visitors who come to your showroom.