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How to Organize Your Work at Home Office

When running a work at home office, most people have a small space to work with, sometimes as little as a desk in the corner of the family room. But, with some creativity and the right equipment, it’s possible to have an efficient workspace. First, decide what you absolutely have to have, based on the needs of your business. Beyond basic office supplies, like paper and pens, most people only need a computer, printer and a filing system.

Let’s start with the biggest problem—paper clutter:

* Throw junk mail away immediately – Keep a trash can or recycling box, near the door just for junk mail, don’t even let it in the house.

* Purchase a hanging file system – These filing systems are designed to hang from a hook on the back of a door, so it can be hidden in a closet. They usually fold up to about the size of a small brief case. Label each pocket based on your needs, such as bills that need paid, copies of receipts of payments from customers, and tax deductions (even if you aren’t sure something is deductible, save the receipt and check later).

* Scan and save to disc older papers that you don’t need on hand, but want for reference. Discs take up a lot less room than the paper, but can be easily printed out if you need a hard copy.

Office supplies can be a challenge, but a few simple storage containers can keep the clutter to a minimum. Get a drawer divider that has compartments for different sized things. If you need a “travel office”, a child’s school box or art supply box can make a nice option. Periodically check your pens, if they are dry, toss them.

If space is a real premium, consider getting a laptop computer, rather than a desktop. It allows more flexibility. Printers are also getting more compact, and are often combined with scanner/copier/fax systems all in one. The prices are coming down on them all the time, and if you shop around, you can get really good deals with rebates.

If you don’t even have a corner of a room for an office, some people have successfully converted a larger closet into an office area. You may not have a nice view, but you can install a good light, build a desk out of filing cabinets and some counter top scrap in the closet. Work with the door open, and when you’re done, close the door and even if your desk is a bit cluttered, nobody will see it from the outside.