Whether you’re an entrepreneur running your business from home or have recently started to work remotely as a result of Covid-19, the key to being fully productive is to organize your office so that you’re comfortable and can work efficiently. Here are some of the must-haves to make it work for you.
1. An ergonomic workstation
Sounds obvious, but your desk and chair are the first pieces of equipment we need to get right. Investing in a good quality office chair, ergonomically-designed with adjustable height will help avoid niggling back issues which can develop unless we have adequate lumbar support when we sit for long periods.
Ensure that your desk or table is spacious enough for all the equipment you need close by and that your computer is positioned correctly to avoid postural issues and eyestrain.
2. Feature-rich equipment
A powerful internet connection is a given and will save hours of frustration. It’s also important to invest in equipment which will give you a whole range of the latest features. Look for maximum flexibility, so that whenever possible, you can take it with you when you’re working away from your home base.
For example, these days it’s easy to find a portable scanner that will take up much less space than a traditional model, and which you can use anywhere.
3. Lighting
The right lighting will not only make your home office a more pleasant place to be in, but it can also prevent eye strain and headaches caused by glare from the computer screen. Position your desk so you’ll be facing natural light -being able to look up from the computer and stare at the natural world outside is relaxing for the brain as well as the eyes.
If possible, the level of overhead lighting should be adjustable, so that when you’re working at night, or when the skies are gloomy, you’ll still be able to read documents without straining your eyes. An adjustable desk lamp with a powerful beam can also help when you prefer to have softer ambient light but want to read small text easily.
4. Ample storage
To work efficiently it’s essential to feel organized. Piles of random papers sitting on your desk, waiting to be sorted just aren’t going to look or feel good. To stay uncluttered you need to have enough storage space so that whatever you need can be easily and quickly located. A selection of cupboards with doors, cabinets with hanging files and bookshelves will help your desk and your mind stay clear.
5. Noise control
Noise-canceling headphones can be great when you need to concentrate. When you’re working remotely, productive and professional meetings are essential. The last thing you need when you’re trying to make calls and contribute to discussions are the sounds of kids or pets in the background.
Having to mute and unmute is yourself until peace is restored is just not professional, especially when dealing with clients and external stakeholders. Solve these problems with a noise-canceling app that will remove unwanted sounds from speakers and microphones. Thanks to the companies above for consulting.