7 Things Your Boss Wants to Know About Furniture

At India Street Antiques / Danish Modern San Diego our warehouse showroom is always chock full of furniture goodness. Our extensive inventory of unique pieces is what drives bosses to send an employee or two on a mission to locate that perfect, useful credenza, desk, storage unit, file cabinet, desk chair, and conference table for the office. We are speaking to you today, the chosen ones, who are sent on these missions. Before you become overwhelmed with the selection, take a deep breath and keep in mind these 7 things your boss will want to know upon your return from your fact finding mission.
 
1. The Look: Does the piece have the right look, style, feel for the office? What message is your boss sending to employees and clients? Ask your boss in advance to share thoughts and plans pertinent to their vision so you may be on the lookout for the right image.
 
2. Condition: Office furniture will get a lot of use so you want to make sure to look over the pieces thoroughly. With antique and vintage furniture you may expect a reasonable bit of wear; however, the pieces should look good overall with an even finish and a minimum of general wear. Hardware such as pulls, knobs, hinges, slides, latches should operate smoothly. Will the piece be used as a breakfront? Check the back for cleanliness and an attractive finish.
 
3. Delivery: Collect information from the seller regarding delivery of goods. Present to your boss what options are available such as local or long distance delivery, crating and freighting, white glove delivery ( the drivers unload, unpack, assemble and place the furniture inside ) and whether your office has a loading dock or not. In some cases B2B shipments may cost less than residential deliveries.

 4. Measurements: You found the right style, but will it fit? Be sure to bring space measurements with you while shopping and a measuring tape in case you are in a store where they are not provided. Will the piece be used for storage of equipment and materials? Get those measurements, too. When measuring a piece for consideration, get the width, height, and depth as well as any interior measurements for specific storage.
 
5. Modifications: You found the right style, but it needs some custom modifications. Be prepared to present options such as removing cupboard doors and drawer fronts to expose and make use of specific equipment and tools. Is the piece for the company bathroom? Be ready to discuss options for placing a sink and plumbing. Holes may have to be drilled for cables, so an equipment placement chart is useful to see where those holes may have to go.
 
6. Cost: Your boss knows the bottom line. They want to know how much all this will cost. Get detailed with prices for furniture, accessories, modifications, and deliveries. Note any discounts you were able to negotiate and any extras included like switching out knobs or a free bottle of wax. Remember to include payment options. Does the seller accept credit cards or offer net billing?
 
7. Photos: The adage that a picture is worth a thousand words is true. Save your breath and take a picture. Forgot your camera phone? The seller should be able to text or email all the photos you need.
 
Do you feel more relaxed and prepared for the task of shopping for the office furniture? Good. We are prepared to assist. See you on India Street!