It’s the time of year when many people start new jobs, and with that comes the task of setting up a new office. Whether you’re moving into a pre-existing space or creating one from scratch, there are some basic supplies you’ll need to have on hand to make your work life run smoothly. Here is a checklist of the essentials:
1. Technology (printers, computers, phones)
When setting up a new office, it’s essential to make sure you have the necessary technology in place. This includes printers, computers, and phones. It’s also vital to ensure that these devices are set up and working properly before using them.
If you’re buying new computers for your office, make sure to get ones compatible with the software you’ll be using. When it comes to printers, consider the replacement of an imaging drum and toner with the printer itself. And for phones, ensure they have enough and are appropriately connected to your office’s phone system.
2. Office Furniture
Office furniture is an essential part of any workspace. You’ll need a desk, a chair, and shelves or cabinets to store your supplies. When choosing furniture, be sure to consider both your needs and your budget. If you’re on a tight budget, plenty of affordable options are available online or at discount stores.
When it comes to desks, there are a variety of shapes and sizes to choose from. If you have a lot of space, an L-shaped desk can be a great option; if not, a smaller desk might be a better fit. The most important thing is to ensure the desk is large enough to work comfortably. The same goes for chairs; you want one that’s adjustable and supportive so that you can stay productive for hours.
3. Office Stationery
Even in the digital age, office stationery is still necessary for daily tasks such as taking notes and sending letters. Stock up on basic supplies like pens, pencils, paper, staplers, and sticky notes. Also, consider purchasing a printer and printer ink on hand when you need to print documents.
The type of stationery you choose is up to personal preference, but having a variety on hand is a good idea. For example, having colored pens and pencils can come in handy for an organization or making essential notes stand out.
4. Cleaning Supplies
A clean and tidy office is more pleasant to work in than a cluttered and dirty one. Not only will you be more productive if your surroundings are neat and orderly, but you’ll also be less likely to catch a cold or other illness from all the germs that accumulate in unclean environments.
That’s why having a well-stocked cleaning supplies cabinet in your office is important. Here are some of the items you should make sure are always on hand:
- Disinfectant wipes
- All-purpose cleaner
- Glass cleaner
- Paper towels
- Garbage bags
- Sponges
- Mop and bucket (for those bigger cleaning jobs)
5. Kitchen/Coffee Supplies
When setting up a kitchen in your office, there are a few essentials you’ll need to have on hand. Coffee is one of those items – it’s important to have coffee for your morning cup, but it’s also important to have coffee for your afternoon slump. Make sure to always stock up on coffee beans, filters, and coffee mugs to have a fresh cup.
In addition to coffee, you’ll also need some kitchen basics like plates, silverware, and cups. Make sure to have a variety of sizes so that you can accommodate different groups of people. You’ll also want some cooking supplies like pots, pans, and utensils. If you plan to cook in your office kitchen, stock up on these supplies.
6. Desk Organizers and Accessories
When it comes to desk organization, there are a variety of different accessories and tools that can be used to make the process easier. The desk organizer is one of the most popular items, which can store various office supplies and materials. There are various desk organizers on the market, so it’s crucial to find one that best suits your needs. Some popular features include adjustable compartments, built-in pen holders, and sturdy construction.
Another popular desk accessory is the desk blotter. A desk blotter can protect your desktop from ink stains and scratches, which also comes in handy for temporarily holding papers or other materials. Desk blotters typically come in various sizes and colors, so it’s easy to find one that matches your style.
While this may seem like a basic list, having these things on hand is vital to create a functional workspace. As time goes on, you may find other items you need for your specific job or workplace. But by starting with the essentials, you can ensure that your new office is ready for productivity from day one.