Like anything else, your desk should fit the needs of you and your job. But we have a few suggestions of things you could have at your desk to improve your productivity. Here are some of our ideas.
Timer
There are all kinds of them out there. You can get a basic kitchen timer in fun food shapes like a lemon or tomato usually for $10 or less. You can also get a very high-tech or even timer if you love gadgets. A timer is useful to keep you on track with projects and remind you of passing time. Allot 30 minutes in the morning for answering vital emails and phone calls. The sound of the timer ticking down can help you stay focused on the task.
Inspiration Piece
Find something that reminds you of why you do what you do. Not just reminding you about why you need a paycheck (that could be a pic of your loved ones), but something that helps you remember in those difficult moments why you love the job, the organization, or otherwise. If you don’t love those things, start making some plans to get to a job where that can be true and as a reminder, get an inspiration piece for that.
Ring Smart Doorbell
You can get one of these set up for your door at your home and see who is there and respond to them no matter where you are, but consider the possibility of putting one up at the door to your office too. This may only work if you are the boss, but for those times when your gatekeeper is away from the desk, it’s a novel approach for keeping distractions outside your workspace. It will also work wonders for those who work from home.
Amazon Echo (or Similar)
Do you want a vocal link with all the information on the internet? Here’s your chance. These little items take up very little space and link to other options too. Order your supplies by saying what you need ordered, pick a music playlist to match the project you are working on currently, and just about anything else you can think to do or request.
Bonus Item
A small desk scanner that allows you to scan things like business cards, documents, receipts, pictures, or notes. One of these can help you keep your desk clutter-free. A lot of them also allow you to immediately send the scanned item to the folder with like items or topics.
All these things can make work more efficient.
Ronn Torossian is the CEO and founder of 5W Public Relations.
