The average worker spends 67 days a year sitting at a desk. What’s more, 45% claim their employer does not provide the equipment needed to make them feel comfortable at their desks.
It’s time to take matters into your own hands. So, in no particular order, here are ten things every worker needs on their desk:
Sticky notes
The drive for a paperless office continues unabated. But sometimes we all need somewhere to scribble down an idea, phone number or quick reminder to ourselves. The sticky note continues to stand the test of time, providing professionals with a simple way to take notes.
Sticky notes are also a useful tool to help you collaborate, brainstorm, display, and visualize your ideas. In fact, research reveals that the humble sticky note is also a persuasive instrument to get people to comply with a request.
Desk organizer
Desk organizers can help you keep your workstation clean and tidy. Not only can a clean desk give the impression of professionalism, but it can also help you keep an eye on important tasks. Desk organizers can also boost your productivity by removing distractions from your desk.
Refillable water bottle
We all know it’s important to stay hydrated. In fact, the UK’s Natural Hydration Council claims good hydration levels can improve your work productivity. This helps perform better from both a mental and physical standpoint.
However, you don’t want to contribute to plastic pollution levels by using disposable cups. So, it’s worth investing in a refillable water bottle to keep you hydrated without adversely affecting our planet.
Phone charger
In today’s highly digitized times, could you carry out your day-to-day responsibilities without your smart devices? Research reveals 94% of workers own a smartphone. What’s more, 71% spend more than two hours per week accessing corporate information on their mobile devices.
A range of phone chargers are available, some of which allow you to simultaneously charge multiple devices. Others offer wireless charging and adapters to make sure you can keep charged and connected.
Umbrella
Sitting at your desk all day is a big no-no for your mental and physical well being. But if it’s pouring outside with rain, you may not feel very motivated to take a walk during your lunch break.
But there’s no excuse not to step outside with these funky and innovative umbrellas. They’re constructed of dual strand carbon fiber rods and robust polycarbonate joints to withstand winds of over 70 miles per hour.
Noise-canceling headphones
Open-plan offices are often criticized for a lack of privacy. There are several etiquette rules workers should follow in such spaces – and keeping noise to a minimum tops the list.
In fact, a recent survey from CommercialCafe revealed more than 60% of millennial workers believe noise has a negative impact on their productivity. But if you can’t work without your music (or want to block out the noise of other people), a pair of noise-canceling headphones can help.
Seat cushion
If a standing desk isn’t your thing, then you may want to find new ways to make your workstation more comfortable.
An ergonomic seat cushion can promote healthy posture and alleviate back pain and discomfort you may experience while sitting at your desk. What’s more, you can take your cushion wherever you go, making them an ideal option for flexible workers.
Desk lamps
Lighting is an important factor in your working environment. Natural and/or adequate lighting is important to keep your eyes healthy. But fluorescent lights could adversely affect your health and productivity.
If you need more light, a desk lamp is a good option to illuminate your space without affecting the environment of your fellow workers.
Mouse pad
Now that most modern devices rely on optical components instead of the old ball mechanism, a mouse pad isn’t really a technical must-have. However, they can protect the finish of your desk, it’s possible to select options faster, and it can be easier to control mouse movements.
They can also help you personalize your desk. In fact, there are plenty of mouse pads to choose from, including lots of create-your-own options.
File organizer
Are you drowning in paperwork? Then, a simple file organizer is a must-have to help you bring order to your desk. It’s a simple and low-budget idea that helps you keep your papers looking crumple-free and also exudes professionalism.
