Work desk organization is key to getting work done efficiently. You are creating a conducive environment that will allow you to accomplish everyday tasks. Clutter has a negative impact on your work and ability to complete tasks on time.
If your desk is messy and disorganized, you will not be able to focus on your projects or tasks. A professional appearance does not stop at the clothes you wear. In fact, it extends to your workplace as well. A clean desk communicates professionalism and that you are well organized on a daily basis.
You feel energized and inspired with a clean desk. Work desk organization will require little effort if it is done daily and after you finish off for the day. One big reason for a clean desk is to make sure you are not breathing hazards caused by built up dust and lint. Keeping your workplace clean and tidy makes it an inviting and productive workplace. You can focus and get your work down faster than you think.
Here are some work desk organization ideas to keep your work desk and area clean:
1. Organize a physical inbox for your work desk
Many people think that piling up paper is considered work desk organization. This is not the case. Avoid piling paper. If you have a pile on your desk at this moment, start to sort it out and throw away the paper you do not need.
It is important to have a designated physical inbox where you can organize the paper you need to address, file, scan, fill details and recycle. This way your paper is not scattered or accidentally thrown in the recycling.
2. Put a trash and recycling bin nearby
Make sure to have a trash and recycling bin in reach. This way you can get rid of unnecessary paper and recycle paper when possible. Everyday cleaning and recycling will keep your desk organized and well maintained.
When your desk does not have piles of paper everywhere, it is easy to dust and wipe your desk every day. Make sure you can easily reach the trash and recycling bin from your chair.
3. Avoid unnecessary clutter on your work desk
Clutter starts when you keep the knickknacks and other office accessories on your desk. If these items do not serve a purpose, place them away or in an accessible location so it is easy to reach when needed. Try to keep your desk space free of objects unless they are used on a daily basis.
Make sure to have a physical inbox to keep your paper organized and ready for you to tackle immediately. Scan documents to clear the clutter. This way, you can immediately recycle or shred the documents.
4. Establish a regular cleaning time
Your office will have a company clean the entire office, which include vacuuming the floor, wiping the desks and dusting the furniture. To make it easy for the cleaning company and to ensure your desk is wiped daily, keep it clear from objects and paper.
At the end of your day, look at your desk and tidy it up. Keep 5 or 10 minutes at the end of your day to tidy up your desk. This way you will always have a clean and wiped desk everyday when you arrive at work.
5. Implement organizational systems
A physical inbox is one way to organize your paper. In addition to this, you can have shelves, filing cabinets and other systems that can help you put away paper and documents. You can request for small shelves near your desk. You can label the drawers and shelves to help you find documents or important paperwork.
6. Organize objects on your work desk
Avoid leaving or placing objects on your desk especially if it causes a distraction. Limit the decoration on your desk and remove books. Place books on a shelf that is accessible. After working each day, put items back in their designated space. Put pens in your jar holder, file paper and place binders or books back on the shelf.
7. Clean your computers
You should wipe your computer screen, keyboard and mouse. This will keep it from collecting dust or dirt. At the end of the day, quickly wipe your computer to keep it free from dust build-up.
8. Keep relevant tools and supplies near your work desk
Keep all the relevant tools and supplies you need nearby such as your scissors, pens, pencils, markers, paper and stapler. If an item is never used, don’t store it with your everyday tools. Have a drawer to keep all this stationery in your desk.
9. Organize digital documents
Work desk organization extends to the digital contents of your computer too. If you review or save documents electronically, it will prevent having papers and documents on your desk. Print these documents only if essential.
10. Always clean up food at your work desk
Food is one of the biggest detractors to work desk organization. There is a tendency to eat and drink at your desk, especially drink coffee or have a snack. If you do, make sure you clean immediately after you eat or drink. Keep a few of sanitary wipes to clean your desk surface.