As a small business owner, you understand how easy it is to get overwhelmed with everything that needs to get done. Naturally, sometimes organization is sacrificed to stay on top of your to-do list. Although this might be an effective strategy for a short-term rush, it tends to be counterproductive if you let everything pile up week after week. Office organization may seem like a pain, but it can actually be pretty easy by simply sticking to a few efficiency-friendly rules. Here are a few tips for organizing supplies –
1. Appoint a Supply Overseer
Losing track of your inventory could mean losing money, which is why appointing one of your current employers to oversee the flow of supplies is an effective tactic to keep everything organized. This person will have the responsibility of knowing exactly what you have on hand, how long it’s been there and when it will need replacing. Consistently monitoring your inventory can not only keep you more organized, but also help you eliminate unnecessary expenses and unprofitable products.
2. Establish a Routine
One of the most effective ways to maintain organization is by making it a part of your regular routine. This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to set aside time to organize every day. However, if you notice you have a few extra hours of free time on Wednesday afternoons, make it a part of your routine to organize during this gap in your schedule. In addition to establishing a routine, try to get into the habit of organizing little by little throughout the day, so you don’t end up having to clean a big mess once the week is over.
3. Utilize Closets, Cabinets and Shelves
Especially when it comes to organizing office bathroom supplies, you’ll want to maximize space with several storage areas. Closets are preferred modes of storage, since they’re spacious enough to house a large selection of supplies and tend to be the most secure. Cabinets are good for small amounts of supplies, but you’ll want to make sure to choose models with locks on them so that only authorized users can access company products. Shelves are one of the most cost-effective ways for maintaining organization, but make sure they’re accompanied by a ladder to make the supplies safe and easy to access.
4. Weigh the Benefits of Buying in Bulk
Suppliers are always trying to encourage buyers to commit to larger amounts of their products by offering discounts for buying in bulk. Often, this perk benefits both parties because the supplier ensures larger sales and the buyer saves money on items he already buys. Although it might seem like a good deal, make sure you closely evaluate the perks of buying in bulk. If having an excess of supplies around compromises your organization, this could negatively affect your business in a more detrimental way than spending more money for a manageable amount.
When it comes to running a small business, the old saying “time is money” applies; poor organization is one of the most common ways businesses waste both time and money. Luckily, this problem is relatively easy to fix when you have a plan in place. These tips for organizing supplies will help you get started on the road to better organization in order to ultimately maximize profits and reduce stress.