Getting organized seems to be a tricky tactic for many people. This blog will focus on my good friend's book, Organizing Your Office for Life, by Nicole Bickett. Angela James, Account Manager at Silver Square, has provided a summary below on the four-step process for getting organized as presented by Ms. Bickett. (book design by Silver Square)
We can help you organize a media file of all of your ads, articles, press releases, direct mail cards, etc. if you're finding that to be a growing mess of a problem. As for organizing your office, well, just follow the steps below.
If you are feeling overwhelmed and want to get organized, the 4T organizing process can simplify your life and be a great tool to help you begin! The first step in this process is to transfer everything out. Clean off your desk or take everything out of the closet or room when you begin. Get three crates or boxes and label them; Give, Act and File. A trash can or trash bag can be used for the toss pile. Items that do not need to be filed in your office or belong in someone else’s office go in the Give box. Items that require action go into the Act file. File – these are items that do not need action now but you may need to use as a reference later. The next step is to toss anything you can now. This will save you time and keep you from going through extra piles later. You’ll be surprised at the number of items you keep that you don’t actually need or didn’t even realize you had!
Step 3 is to tailor a system to your needs. You may want to create an alphabetical or numeric filing system. Another filing system is the 3F Action Files which consists of fundamental files, fixed files, and flex files. Fundamental files, otherwise known as a tickler file, is a set of files labeled 1 to 31 to represent the days of the month, and January to December to represent the months of the year. Files you use daily are references as fixed files. Waiting on response, discuss, reading, rolodex/enter in contact database and creative ideas are examples of fixed files. Flex files are your action or project files. They can also be referred to as “changing” or “variable” files.
The last step is to take action. Once you determine which filing system works best for you, stick with it. Set aside a block of time with minimal interruptions. It may help for you to have someone to assist you in making decisions, taking out extra trash, helping set up file folders and helping you stay focused. Enjoy your new space and be proud of yourself for what you have accomplished!
Great job Raquel. Nice to see you writing every day! I am horrible at organization...
Posted by: Kent Burns | September 15, 2007 at 10:31 PM