No filing. Now there’s a thought. Unfortunately it is an essential part of business and there isn’t a well-run office that functions without a bit of ‘neat and tidy’. If you file as you go, it’s purely an extension of your everyday back-office process. So what’s the secret? Here are some Pickle tips to help you minimise your filing for good. Really, it’s so simple – you’ll wonder why you hadn’t thought of it before now.
1. Keep a stash of clear plastic folders and sticky labels within arm’s reach of your desk. Every project should have a plastic folder and every paper, document or scribbled note relating to that project slips inside making it is easy to find.
2. Each time you start a new project, stick a label on your plastic folder in the top right hand corner and write the file name there. (You could type it, but I suspect if you’re that way inclined you don’t need any organising tips from me!). Even if you end up with a pile of these folders on your desk, the correct file can be found in a fraction of the time spent wading through a massive stack of unruly papers. If you want to take it a step further you could use coloured plastic folders that relate to particular areas of your business, for example; clients / new business / finance.
3. You could also use hanging files in your pedestal (L – what is this?) next to your desk that the plastic folders can slip in to. You can label these with the sticky labels too – don’t worry about those fussy little label holders that come with the hanging files, they’ll drive you mad.
So just remember these 2 rules: Keep it simple; keep it close!
By having your filing equipment within easy reach of your desk you’ll be more inclined to file as you go along and wave goodbye to that messy back-log of filing for good.
