1. 1
Place your computer monitor directly in front of you if you want to discourage people from interrupting your work.
2. Step 2
Position your desk so that you can see people who approach your door.
3. Step 3
Avoid leaving spare chairs around your desk to minimize distractions.
4. Step 4
Keep important papers or equipment within reach. Your phone, computer, filing cabinet, fax machine and printer should be within reach if you use them frequently.
5. Step 5
Post a calendar and clock close by. Try using a large calendar that can be posted on your wall and written on with dry erase markers.
6. Step 6
Have papers and materials for only the task at hand on your desk.
7. Step 7
Establish a filing system, keeping current files in your deep desk drawer or a filing cabinet within reaching distance of your desk. Store papers you need only periodically somewhere else.
8. Step 8
Label file names clearly, and try color-coding your folders for better organization. File alphabetically.
9. Step 9
Set up an inbox and outbox ' one to receive incoming papers and another to hold assignments you've completed before forwarding them to the appropriate person.
10. Step 10
Read incoming paperwork with a highlighter in hand, marking important deadlines or phone numbers. Deal with urgent papers immediately, set aside those that aren't urgent, and throw away the ones that aren't important.
11. Step 11
Tidy your desk space at the end of the day, noting what you need to work on tomorrow.