Every weekday, like many people in the corporate world, you work in a cubicle. From the outside, these grey, politically correct drab walls might look bare and uninteresting, but from where you are, you know the importance of keeping things unique, simple, and your own. Here are a few tips to get you started.
Tip # 1: Remember That It’s all About You
At your job, it’s important to be efficient as possible. Therefore, it is important to keep the important things in easy reach. Do you spend the majority of your time on the phone, dealing with clients, or trying to create new ones? Make sure you have all their information in your computer contacts list. You may need a small corkboard on the cubicle wall near your phone with quick reference phone numbers or phone scripts. That way the information you need is easily accessible exactly when you need it – both on the computer and visually in front of you. Do you spend the majority of your time reviewing files, plans or paper documents? Make sure that you have enough desk space to spread out your files or plans and easily put them away when you are finished at the end of your day. Another great tip is to have a small whiteboard hanging on your cubicle wall with your tentative schedule or list of current projects. People will know at a glance what your latest project is, and if you have available time.
Tip # 2: Don’t Forget The Paperwork!
Chances are there will always be paperwork in the corporate world. Keeping your paper files organized can not only help you become more productive, it can also make your time at the office a little less stressful. It’s best to keep things simple. Start with four trays stacked on your desk or hanging on your wall divider. One for incoming material, one for material that is awaiting additional information, or is currently being worked on, one for out-going material, and one for filing or better yet, file papers right away and eliminate this tray altogether.
Tip #3: Add that Personal Touch
It’s important in the business world to be reminded exactly why you are working this hard. While over the top displays of personal items might be frowned upon, most work places have no problem with small, tasteful pictures or little trinkets to remind you of your family. Keep your desk clutter-free with lots of work surface to do your work efficiently!
Tip #4: Clear Out Those Boxes Under Your Desk!
We all know it’s easier to just toss things under the desk so no one can see all your stuff. Having piles of paper, boxes and binders under your desk can create undo stress because you know you should deal with it but don’t have time to right now. Keep the space under your desk free for extra leg room and peace of mind that you don’t have to deal with some random box of papers someday. We all know someday never comes.
These are just a few things that you can do to make your cubicle more habitable and user friendly. Give them a try!