If you’re running a business from home, you most likely have an office set up in your house where you take calls, send emails and carry out the majority of your work. When you are working from home, or in any office for that matter, the atmosphere and vibe can make all the difference in the world. We have come up with five cost-efficient tips for how to organise your home office for as little money as possible.
1. Ensure Most Used Items are Within Arm’s Reach
A well-organised office space is one where you don’t have to move everything around to find what you are looking for. Keep most used items like pens, stapler, business cards, notepad, tissues, post-it notes, paperclips and other important documents that you’ll be accessing frequently, in the first drawer.
Loose papers are better kept in the first drawer, or in a lidded box beside your desk (where little hands won’t get to them!) Your drawers should not be cluttered; instead organise relevant documents and place them in a file, document wallet or manila folder. Manila folders are a great investment because they can be bought in bulk and are very cost-effective. Always label your folders clearly and colour-coordinate them.
2. Keep Work Space Minimal
Ideally, your desk should have no more than five items on it; your computer, keyboard, mouse, a phone and a pencil tin. If you have too many things on your desk at one time, it can be overwhelming and you become more prone to distractions.
When your desk is clear, it is easier to keep a clear head and not feel overwhelmed, no matter how many tasks are in your inbox.
3. Go Bargain Hunting for Furniture
If you’re just getting started establishing a proper study and don’t have furniture, bargain hunting is the best way to get some great things for low prices. You can find so many used or relatively new things at garage sales, markets and op shops at remarkably reduced prices.
If you’re keener on brand new items, check out the sales during the sale period and don’t be afraid to haggle with salespeople. If you are within driving distance of an Ikea, they have great office organising furniture and accessories for low prices.
4. Host a Swap Party
Get a group of friends together to swap furniture, books and other supplies for your office. Most people have a few pieces of furniture in their storage room or garage that remain unused. Ask friends or family if they have any chairs, desks or organisers they are thinking of throwing away. You may be lucky enough to get your hands on something new or barely worn.
5. Have a Disposal Bin
In order to maintain a neat and tidy office, keep a bin somewhere nearby to throw away any rubbish. Leaving papers around that you no longer need is only going to contribute to the clutter and de-motivate you from your task. Remember, you’re less likely to become distracted when you’re working in a neat space.
With that said, keep as many things electronic as possible. If you can organise your folders on your laptop and keep things there, you will always feel more organised and ready to jump into tasks on a daily basis.
This article was contributed by Vistaprint. Vistaprint empowers more than 13 million micro businesses and consumers annually with affordable, professional options to make an impression with range of products including customised business cards, postcards, invitations, T-shirts.
