Color

A number of years ago, when I was just getting in to reading self help books, a friend introduced me to a book called the Color Test.  The book was an eye opener with regard to how we are affected by color.

There are colors that can make you hungrier.  There are colors that encourage anger.  There are colors that promote calmness.  And, colors that promote creativity.

 Few years ago, my wife was going to repaint our office.  In discussing what color to paint the office – I stressed the importance of the office being bright and cheery.  My thinking was that I sometimes sit in the office and just take in the atmosphere.  In doing so, my mind can wonder into creative areas.

We selected a soft yellow for the office. 

Now, we are in the midst of some renovations to our home and again – we are selecting colors for definite reasons.  The kitchen will be a russet brown with Magellan Green countertops and white walls.  Laid back coloring, yet warm and inviting – some may even say “homey”.

As we moved to the living area – again, we wanted brightness as the windows look out to the wooded area on our property.  The living room is brightly lit from sunshine and colors that set the tone of the room.  We selected 2 shades of peach, one wall being darker than the others.  The dark wall is the wall where the sunshine hits.  The two shades of peach offer a contrast.  The color scheme offers a fun whimsical appeal.  And, at the same time allows us to sit in the room and be creative as we gaze out at the trees behind our home.

I share this info to emphasize the importance of color. 

If you have an office where you meet with clients, it would be wise to use a color scheme that fits your type of business as well as the message you want to convey to the customer.

If your office is more of an area for you to do your work and brainstorm – then I suggest going with colors that enhance creativity.  Decorate the office for inspiration.

 If the office is a showroom for you to showcase your work – pay more attention to detail and decorate with things that accent your work and do not “steal the show” from what you are trying to display.

This leads to dress.  The color section of clothing should be consistent with the profession you are in.  i.e. you would not feel good about going to a surgeon who wears Three Stooges t-shits to work.

Additionally, your clothing should also share some of your personality.  Not too much – but just a hint.  Subtlety works best here.

Stationary, business materials and business cards should reflect the color scheme of your profession, work or office.

Caution – always keep in mind “branding”.  If your company has a branding that utilizes a specific color – stay with that color scheme.  However, if you have yet to establish a color in your branding – start considering what colors you want to be known for.

When you see an orange and silver box truck on the highway – chances are it’s a U-Haul.  As popular as their name is – people are more likely to associate their color scheme with them name.

Pick up a copy of the book Color Test – and I am certain you will be amazed at how color impacts our lives.

Have a great week.

Ron