If you spend a lot of time at a desk, personalizing the space makes sense—whether it’s a private corner office or a shared cubicle. But just as your clothes and body language make an impression on others, your workspace gives coworkers and clients a distinct impression about you.

Plants, books, artwork—even your name plaque—transmit clues about your efficiency, sociability and competence, experts say.—Larry Buhl, Monster.com