If you are trying to find ways to get out of the office on time, the answer may be sitting under piles of papers on your desk. The reality is, if you can become better organized at your workspace your day will be more productive and you will finish tasks without being distracted by clutter.

• Start with your office desk drawers: Use your drawers to their maximum benefit. The largest filing folder drawers should have all your paperwork that is not needed every day. File these folders with an appropriate system for you and place papers, literature, and correspondence daily.  Use smaller drawers to hold office supplies such as notepads, letterhead and envelopes. In your top drawer use an organizing tray for pencils, pens, highlighters and post it notes. The idea is to eliminate clutter off your desk and work surface.
• Desk and work surfaces: Depending on the line of work you do will dictate how much space you need on your desk.  Assess your computer area and leave ample room around the keyboard for the mouse and an area for a book/paper etc… to look at while using the computer. Remove all sticky notes from your monitor and convert to using an electronic system such as the Calendar feature in Microsoft Outlook. Set alerts to eliminate paper reminders and cluttering of your desk. For supplies that you use constantly, house a pen/pencil container and an area for paperclips and staples.
• Personal items: Your desk doesn’t have to be stark and sterile. Liven up your desk with a few personal photographs and memorabilia. After all, you will work better and more efficiently if you enjoy your desk area. Once your work surfaces are clear of clutter, your personal items will show that much more.  Keep personal items to a manageable level and if you have wall space, consider hanging pictures to free up valuable desk space.
• Take time to purge: In order to successfully keep your desk clean you will have to purge old items and incoming unneeded paperwork. Choose a time of day that you can do this without distractions – sometimes first thing in the morning works well. While purging consider using a desk organizer that will help utilize vertical space. These are especially helpful for those that need different types of paper and stationery, and need it at arms reach.

Take time and clean your desk to free up time in your busy day. A clean and organized desk is the key to enjoying your work space. You’d be surprised how much time you will add to your day to enable you to get out of the office and home faster!

Categories: Business Tips