You may know where everything is on your messy desk, but what does your cluttered space say about you to co-workers and superiors? Are you missing out on career-defining opportunities because your peers think you lack organizational skills?
People associate a host of traits with organization – maturity, discipline, value, focus, and more. If you are known as the untidy, disorganized employee, you may be unknowingly viewed in an unflattering light. Even if you are leaps and bounds more mature than the office class clown, there is a possibility that your disorganization can put you in the same boat.
The honest truth is that perception is reality. You may feel you’re the hardest working employee in the office, but not if your co-workers can’t navigate your workspace to find an important document in your absence.
So how do you remedy your clutter habit?
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Time management – You might be surprised by the amount you can get done in a short period of time. Give yourself 15 minutes to organize your desk a day and you’ll be amazed at the results.
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No miscellaneous folders – Every paper on your desk should have an appropriate home. Your paid orders should be separate from your client worksheets — far away from your stockpile of takeout menus.
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Clean up old emails – Does your virtual mailbox need some spring cleaning? If you have emails that don’t require any action on your part, it’s time to set them free. Delete, delete, delete!
Even if you insist your disorganization is not hindering you at work, it’s in your best interest to make a better impression on your supervisors and fellow employees by making your workspace less chaotic. Do you have any tips that help you stay organized at work? Let us know! Visit DAHL’s Facebook or Twitter to share your knowledge with us!