Without a doubt, clutter can be overwhelming. It doesn’t matter where it happens. The fact is that it piles up gradually, and before you know it, there is a tonne of work on your hands.
According to data, Brits store clutter five times more than any other European country. If the statistic is anything to go by, it means the very act of holding on to things transcend the home into the workspace or business. So, if you wish to get your business in order, here are some ways to do so.
Shred excess copies of sensitive documents and store only a few
As a business owner, it is expected that you will handle some sensitive documents at some point. This could be bank statements, printed loan repayment records, files on clients, etc. When your business grows, all these printed sheets will become too much to handle. Unfortunately, small and medium-sized businesses tend to practice this a lot more. Thankfully, there is a better way to handle this. For example, while it is necessary to have printed copies of sensitive documents, the best way to store them might be in a safe.
On the other hand, you have the option to use low cost storage to safely put these sensitive files away. Sadly, some companies have had to learn the hard way after ‘outsiders’ managed to access delicate business information. Indeed, the more extra copies you keep around the office, the higher the risk of them getting into the wrong hands. While shredding is ideal, you may want to incinerate the pieces all together.
Declutter your email inbox
First of all, it is never recommended to use a personal email address to conduct company business. Apart from the unprofessional nature of using one email for both purposes, it prevents you from separating personal messages from your business messages. If this is what you do, you risk missing out on critical information related to your company. Even more importantly, this creates digital clutter for your business. Before you know it, there might be hundreds if not thousands of unread messages you cannot get through in a day.
The best way to handle digital clutter is to avoid them in the first place. To do this, it would be helpful to adopt an efficient filing system. Indeed, you can use this approach in dealing with your email. You can start by checking your emails daily. In addition to this, you can make a habit of responding to email messages that require your immediate attention.
You can create folders for each client you transact business with when you’re through with those. Subsequently, it will become easier and more convenient to adhere to the filing system you created. As an alternative, you also have the option to delegate your personal assistant to sift through your business emails.
Use multipurpose storage
No two businesses have the same needs, and for that reason, your storage requirements can be entirely different from the next company. However, in sorting out your storage issues, it is vital to consider something that offers a dual purpose. This is particularly important if your office already lacks adequate physical space. Many companies such as Surrey removals and storage company offer office relocation services, with quick and easy service with minimal downtime for your business.
Logically, with limited space, you will want to minimise clutter and maximise the area within which your business occupies. For example, some multipurpose storage cabinets double up as desks, making them convenient for offices looking for an open space plan.
The overall objective of this point is to focus on organising your office on the principle of practicality. While you declutter your business space, remember to rearrange everything else in the order of regularity of use. If you use specific files regularly, those are the ones to keep in the top drawer or cabinet closest to you. While at it, those you seldom work on can be stored away until you need them.
Get your office cables under control
Computers, printers, scanners, TV sets, internet cables, etc., are a few examples of the many electronic gadgets kept and used in the office space. While these appliances utilise electricity and maximise efficiency, the downside is that their cables, if not properly managed, can cause a whole web of clutter.
Most businesses try to run these cables behind the desks in the offices and hidden from sight. The best way, however, is to run them within the flooring. This may require the help of a licensed electrician to reduce the risks of unprofessional work. After decluttering your business, you can then focus on other essential business areas.
