What You Do and Don’t Need to Have On Your Desk
While it is true that a desk is a symbol of who you are, it also projects an image to your boss, colleagues and visitors that you may not be entirely aware of. A clean desk environment is the best way to bolster your image as a professional, but there are things you should and should not be keeping out in plain sight.
The Computer
Necessary for most of today’s business, where would your desk be without this most important tool? If you have a desktop rather than a portable version, this will be a permanent space dedicated to your monitor.
Writing Implements
Somehow no one can get away with having a pen or pencil handy for scribbling notes during calls, meetings, or when someone drops by. The paperless office may be one of the big ideas for the future, but most people find it less than convenient to use a computer notepad program for messages. Make sure these are of the variety you don’t mind wandering away.
Paper
Generally this takes the form of post-its, but any small notebook or pad will do. Even a spare piece from the printer works, but for space considerations and aesthetic appeal smaller is better.
Phone
A company issued mobile phone (not usually your own personal phone!) or a desk phone should always be handy for customers to call.
Photos
You don’t need to cover your workspace with photos. One or two is plenty. They should show a stable person who is dependable, like a picture of a spouse or of children you are close to. However, this is dependent upon your work environment. You may choose to keep your personal life separate. It’s completely up to you to judge the appropriateness of this one.
Business Cards
This is a must. Clients who need to contact you can grab one at will. They can even double as extra paper if you run out, but don’t put them back in the stack after you use them for notes. You might lose something important or share something you shouldn’t.
Tape, Scissors, Hole-Punch, Binder Clips, and Other “Desk Accessories”
Evaluate exactly how often you use them. If you use them multiple times per day, it may be useful to have the item out. If not, stick them neatly inside a desk drawer so you know where they are and have them handy.
Clock
This essential will tell you the time, even though you could look at your computer or phone, and make certain you are respectful of appointments.
What not to have:
Stacks of Papers
Disorganised papers make you seem less capable, even if you know exactly what’s in the piles. Put them away!
Other Personal Items
You may have sports memorabilia or other hobby items on your desk, give them serious thought before bringing them into your workspace. Sports stuff is best when cheering on the home team with home referring to the town where you reside and work.
Reading material may be okay if you have time during a lunch break, but consider leaving that in a desk drawer, too, especially if it’s considered a lower-level novel or tabloid instead of the newspaper.
Tags: Office Desks, organisation