Office Etiquette: Back to School – Back to the Office

As the kids start back to school, there’s a renewed sense of energy as we head into the office this morning. Anticipation of a morning routine and the hope of cooler weather are motivation to get your workspace in order. Here are a few ideas to help you prepare for a fresh start:

Add inspiration to your space with new artwork or personal photos. Update your inspiration board, family photos, and artwork by displaying them in an attractive and orderly manner.

Hang a season-appropriate suit coat or sweater on the back of your office door. For days when you need to quickly prepare for a last-minute meeting, update your “emergency look” to something appropriate for the new season. Swap out vibrant summer colors with richer tones and fabrics.

Tackle your clutter. Merge and purge random stacks of papers, old magazines, and assorted sticky notes that are cluttering your desk . Knowing where to find a folder or pair of scissors keeps the flow of your day peaceful.

Deep clean. Blow out the crumbs and sanitize your keyboard, wipe down your laptop screen, and dust office shelves that haven’t seen a cleaning cloth in months. Purchase a fresh smelling hand sanitizer and put organic cleaning products in an empty desk drawer for daily touch ups.

Get rid of anything that doesn’t enhance your space. It is time to let go of the battered silk plant that has been passed around from one office to another. Make sure things are arranged in a way that supports your productivity and makes your work day more enjoyable.

Replenish your top desk drawer. Do an inventory and stock up on the basics: a small sewing kit, breath mints, travel toothbrush and toothpaste, hand lotion, a small mirror, ibuprofen, a lint brush, an extra pair of reading glasses, a highlighter, and band-aids. Reorder a supply of stationery and stamps for sending a quick thank you note to a client.

Purchase a new lunch bag. Throw away your old bag if it looks worn out, or dingy. Purchase a new insulated tote that will offer an incentive to bring your lunch to work. Not only is bringing your lunch a great economical alternative to fast food, but also a good way to encourage your colleagues to follow suit. Perhaps cutting down on travel time will allow for a brisk walk or catching up on a personal phone call or two during your lunch break.