The Efficient Office

Are you ever short on time and would rather leave a message on an answering machine instead of having conversation? Instead of leaving it to chance . . .

We know what items are necessary in our office; desk, file cabinet, computer and telephone.

BUT..efficiency depends you have your office set up. Here are some questions to consider when setting up your office for maximum results:

Breaking out of the habit of working long hours and weekends in an effort to be viewed as a valued partner or service provider can be tough. Breaking the cycle requires commitment. It means setting goals and boundaries for yourself in this area and then making small changes over time. But, you can get there! By next summer, you too might be able to break away from your meetings with enough time to take a swim before dinner!

While these five tips will get you started on your path to creating a Zen-like atmosphere in your office, remember that it’s OK to make changes and to keep playing around with the décor and processes as you develop an office space that soothes and inspires. After all, the more at peace your mind and body are, the more productive and efficient you will be in your job!

As you start to consider what you want to accomplish in 2011, make sure that you’re using the SMART goal method.

Tight on storage space? Hanging shoe organizers are great for storing office supplies.

Never run out of supplies again. Keep ‘Item Specific’ index cards stored with the item.

Rewrite your ToDo’s, putting them into four categories that are area/location/activity specific, so that you can maximize your time as you move through your day.

Tip to simplify your calendar keeping when using Outlook 2007.

Clutter is often the result of postponed decisions.