Building a business from scratch is challenging. As such, new business owners often have limited resources in the beginning. You may be having to budget your labour, money, and time to expand the business. You may have to juggle many responsibilities. If you are embarking on a small startup, then for sure, it’s an uphill battle in the beginning.
But it should be exciting too! Now that you have a small business that’s big enough to be positioned in an actual office space, it’s time to shop for stationery, office supplies, furniture and storage solutions. And then it’s time to celebrate!
Office stationery is a necessity when it comes to keeping yourself and your business organised, and your processes running smoothly. Documents also need to be managed through information technology. So get kitted out with these new start-up office management essentials!
Office Stationery
● Desk Supplies
Begin with the real basics of the office. Items such as paper clips, rubbish bins, pens, tape, and highlighters. These items should not be taken for granted. They are considered essential items for a reason! They will help you take notes, keep tidy records, be creative, and organise your systems and your daily business schedule. Having the right office supplies enhances productivity.
● Apps and Software
Irrespective of your device, you’ll need software and a few apps to assist you in managing your new business. Such tasks may include making payments, invoicing clients, scheduling appointments, and maintaining your blog or website. It may also involve monitoring your social media presence. One of these apps is GoCo. For small business owners, human resources may be a terrifying mystery. There’s so much to get right and learn. If you are running your first startup, it may be difficult to devote the personnel that is needed to handle all the office work. GoCo will help you with your office management. It is also a platform to support with your human resources. It helps with time-tracking, document management, and payroll management.
● Printing Supplies
Now that you have the technology you need for your startup, you need the supplies as well. If you have an office printer, then you should keep spare cartridges, toners, and ribbons handy at all time. There’s nothing worse than realising in the middle of a vital print job that you have run out of printer ink. Also, CDs and tapes will come in handy if there is a need to record work.
● Files and Folders
You need files as well as folders on your desk too. You should store documents such as licenses, certificates, sanctions, and others carefully. Files are a vital part of the office supplies. They speak volumes to your customers about how seriously you take and how disciplined you are regarding organisation.
● Writing Tools
You should store plenty of writing tools in your office. These should include pencils, erasers, and rulers. These are the basics. Have adequate supplies of various types of devices used for writing for multiple purposes. If the startup needs you to draw sketches or business plans, have pencils and brushes available too.
● Mailing Supplies
When it comes to distributing emails, invoices, paychecks, and other vital documents, you’ll require something to send it in. You should stock envelopes and postage materials.
● Planning- Time Tracking
The busier you become in the new business, the more vital time management becomes. You may have a calendar on your phone. It may also be synched with the official calendar. But, it’s crucial to view things in relation to other aspects such as the possibility of holding a meeting. That’s why you should purchase a planner and hang it on the wall to track your appointments. Sometimes it’s just vital to see something on paper.
● Rubbish Bins
Your office can’t do without a rubbish can and waste paper bins. Keep one of each next to every work station. You should also keep one near the coffee machine. You’ll also need bags to put the rubbish in.
● Scissors
Cutting tools are a necessity in the office. Scissors, as well as paper cutters come in handy, especially with the inbound letters and parcels. You’ll be amazed by how many pairs of scissors get lost, so have plenty around!
● Office Machinery
Having the right electricals in your small business is essential. Having the wrong equipment may set you back. It may prevent you from reaching your potential. The necessary hardware in your office should encompass computers as well as a proper networking system. They include a photocopier as well as a telephone. Without basic machines, the business may struggle to access better communication channels and reach clients.
● Office Comfort Equipment
It’s important to create an environment in which employees feel comfortable, valued and energised when they are working. This will play a key role in reducing injury, stress, work tensions and lack of motivation. Invest in good, high quality office chairs. To do anything else is a false economy as it will only result in injuries. They should be ergonomic to help reduce neck pain. They can also alleviate back pain. Other methods that can help reduce muscle pain include purchasing wrist rests and footrests. You may also consider buying laptop stands.
Starting up a small business you will need office stationery, supplies, and equipment. Buying items such as printers, fax machines, and computers will be the most significant expense of your startup. But, if you plan well, you’ll be able to control office start up expenditures by purchasing the right items that last a long time. It may also be beneficial to purchase heaters and air conditioners, and don’t forget that other essential… the coffee machine! The right basics can transform your office space into a great success story and a motivating force for your employees and your business.