How to Organize My Office
The home office can quickly become a dumping place for junk mail, permission slips, unread magazines and other clutter if you aren't careful. To keep this space clean and make using it efficient, you need some thoughtful organization techniques. Every office is different, so the best solution will involve analyzing your daily routine and the duties you need to accomplish in this space. To ensure your efforts have a lasting effect, take 10 minutes at the end of every day to tidy up and make sure everything is back in its designated space.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Set up a filing cabinet or box for storing paperwork long term. Color code your files by topic and label each clearly. Go through the files once every three to six months and discard items you no longer need.
-
2
Designate a separate file or paper tray for items that need immediate attention. Go for a bold color such as red to draw your attention immediately to these important items each day.
-
-
3
Sort office supplies into designated cups and caddies for each type of item. A haphazard drawer of paper clips, rubber bands, pens and pencils will require a lengthy expedition each time you need to find a specific item. Use small tins, tiny Tupperware or divided plastic trays for clips, mini post-its, staples and other little items. Keep frequently used pencils, pens, highlighters and markers in a pencil cup on your desk in easy reach.
-
4
Install shelving to accommodate your larger storage needs. If you office is filled with books, floor to ceiling bookshelves will quickly clean up the space. If you have an assortment of art supplies, opt for baskets and bins tucked into cubbies. Mount shelves on the wall above your desk or other standing furniture to make the most of limited space.
-
5
Clearly label any storage unit you can't immediately see into. Place tags on the front of boxes and bins. Stick labels on paper trays, drawers and other storage units.
-
6
Designate a spot for stashing your laptop if you want to clear it off of the desk for other projects at the end of the day. A clear shelf or drawer set aside for this purpose will provide an easy way to stash your computer when it's time to give the desk over to scrapbooking, gift wrapping or kids' art projects.
-
1
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/BananaStock/Getty Images
