How to Organize Your Briefcase

Once you leave your office, your briefcase becomes your portable desk, filing cabinet and supply closet. It deserves an investment of time and thoughtful planning. The dividends will make your work life considerably less stressful and more efficient.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Evaluate your current briefcase. If it's too small, too shabby or lacks sufficient interior pockets and pouches, it's time to shop.
2. Assign sections of the briefcase to hold specific types of folders. Reserve the front for items that require immediate action and a back pocket for background reading, or place folders in the order of scheduled meetings. While the specifics are infinitely variable, the need for some sort of system is fundamental.
3. Sort papers into colored folders by subject matter before stowing them in your briefcase. Digging through a single massive folder while your briefcase is precariously balanced on your lap, an airplane tray or the edge of another person's desk wastes time and fuels frustration. See 185 Create a Flawless Filing System.
4. Designate specific pockets within the case for your PDA and cellular phone. Before closing the briefcase, always check these pockets, and you'll never again leave one of these devices behind.
5. Schedule a regular monthly time to clean out your briefcase. File any straggling papers and business cards, discard worn-out pens and markers, and restock supplies such as notepads and sticky notes, envelopes for receipts and extra batteries.

Tips & Warnings

• Check the battery charge on your phone and PDA if you're leaving the office for an extended time.
• Store all the cords you need for chargers and connectors in a small zippered bag.
• Add these six useful items to your briefcase:

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