The productivity killer right under your nose

You spend more time there than anywhere else. So is your desk as organized as it could be?

Here’s how to find out. Check out these seven steps to a workspace that not only eliminates inefficiencies but can actually help you work smarter:

1. Do a pen and pencil purge. Those pencils without erasers or pens that skip belong in the trash. Even if you simply don’t like writing with it, it deserves to go.
2. Dump your pockets here. If you’re not carrying a purse, you need somewhere to stow your keys, phone, PDA, wallet, etc. Everything should have a home. One good locale: under your monitor (it’s dead space anyway!). Keep charging cables there, too, so you aren’t hunting for them.
3. Keep your “friends” close. If you use it every day, it should be closer than something you use only a few times each week. After all, if you’re constantly reaching for far-away things, there’s a much greater chance your desktop order will be messed up.
4. Banish electronics. Get IT on the line if your cable modem, wireless router, firewall, battery backup, etc. are on your desk. Too much clutter.
5. Be file-ready. Quick check: Without moving your chair or getting up, can you grab an unused manila folder, label it and put it in your file cabinet? You should be able to.
6. Keep it clean. Whatever you use to clean and disinfect your workspace, you want it nearby (including a few paper towels).
7. Make a note of it. During the course of the day, you will amass phone numbers, names, addresses, meeting times, etc. A central location, like a notebook, makes it easier to locate that info later.

Adapted in part from “12 Tips for an Organized Desk.”