Spring Clean-Up of Your Office

LeAnn Huffman of At Your Service Group (04/28/2008)

Here are some tips for making a fresh start on your office procedures that can really boost your productivity:

Clean your computer and office equipment surfaces with a damp cloth to remove dust. Clean underneath equipment. Clean your computer monitor and keyboard. While you are cleaning your office equipment, refill paper in your printer and fax machines, and make sure you have backup ink or toner.
Clean your work surfaces. Remove everything and dust or wash your desk or workspace. As you put things back, clean them, too. Fill the stapler and paper clip holder. Throw away old ink pens.
File the business cards you’ve collected from contacts. If you really want to declutter, scan them and create a virtual business card file.
Remove any post-it notes or other out-of-date reminders you have stuck to your monitor or bulletin board.
File or toss all your loose paperwork. Set up folders with specific names, projects and subjects. Archive any folders that you haven’t touched in the past 2 years.
Collect all your supplies into one “supply” area. A closet or file drawer will work, and you’ll always know where your supplies are if you keep them together. Plus, it’s easier to inventory and add items you need to your shopping list.
Back up your computer, and then schedule regular backups. Choose a day once a month and run a backup every month on that date. You may need more or less frequent backups for your own business, but make it routine.

If you need help, you can call in professionals who can do all that and more. Organization experts can integrate productivity systems for your business, which includes getting your contact or networking databases cleaned-up and current, and structuring effective paper systems to allow you to be more productive with your time so you can enhance your business performance with effective ideas.

It’s time to welcome back spring and welcome in new business with some spring cleaning!