Organizing a Traditional Office Space

When I say traditional, I mean it has a door and you have your own space.

  • What is working for you?
  • What is not working for you?
  • If you are not using a headset for a landline or your cell phone, I highly recommend you get one. It saves on your neck.
  • If you are using a landline, your telephone should be on the opposite side of your writing hand. If you are a lefty, the phone should be on the right and the opposite for right handed people.
  • Have a file cabinet or desk drawers, where you can keep files for important daily documents. File them in alphabetical order.
  • I recommend a file cabinet that fits 8 x 10 folders rather than legal size folders.
  • If you have digital systems, create titles and folders to fit inside those folders for finding easily. Separate personal from business.
  • If you have a digital system, back up your system regularly. Have an external hard drive to keep copies, in case you are hacked or lose information.
  • Keep supplies in a closet or in drawers. Keep printer paper nearby or under a printer stand.
  • Work on one project at a time and keep your desk area on that project, to keep your focus.
  • Make sure you have the proper lighting, if conducting zoom calls. Consider purchasing a “RING LIGHT”, which gives you a flattering look on screen and adds light, if you have a dark room.
  • Furniture: Do you have the right chair and desk that accommodates your work? If your chair is uncomfortable – replace it?  Is your furniture placed in a correct space for you? Or do you face the window and tend to daydream outside?
  • Would a stand up table top desk be more suitable for you?
  • Lighting: Do you have overhead lighting and desk lamps?  Is there any natural light coming into your office? Is it distracting? Could you put up a curtain when you need privacy?
  • Is there a window or glass, on part of the wall, that you can view the rest of the office?
  • These ideas can work for a bedroom turned into an office or a company office space.