Whether work happens in the office, at home, or both, it’s crucial to have the right tools needed to get things done, and that includes having the right office products and stationery essentials.
Here are five products you should always have nearby and why they’re essential to help stay on top of things.
1. Notebooks
Notebooks are arguably one of the most essential stationery items to help keep track of and complete a variety of everyday tasks. According to one study, a beneficial effect of note-taking is the ability to process information on a deeper level as a consequence of taking notes, also known as the “encoding effect.”1 Keeping a notebook nearby will allow you to brainstorm, sketch, write notes, keep lists and get creative – no matter where you happen to be.
2. Paper
If you have a printer at home, it’s a great idea to keep a stack of loose paper nearby for writing or drawing on, especially when reading and processing large amounts of information. Studies from Harvard Business Review (HBR) show that a combination of drawing and writing is ideal for generating creative solutions to problems.2
3. Sticky notes
Sticky notes make notes and reminders more visible – stick them to your desk, on your computer and in your notebook. Invented in 1968 by Dr. Spencer Silver3, sticky notes are great for organising different tasks or to use in a collaboration session. They are an incredibly versatile solution, and the reusable adhesive allows you to attach and move notes around as you please.
4. Filing folders
According to HBR, an international survey revealed that “information workers lose up to two hours a week fruitlessly searching for lost digital documents.” Additionally, scientists at the Princeton University Neuroscience Institute have proven that constant visual reminders of disorganisation drain our cognitive resources and reduce our ability to focus.4 Organise your notes, loose papers and important documents by filing them in one place. A lever arch file is a great solution as it keeps pages secure. Invest in manila dividers to categorise documents for easy sorting and locating.
5. Pens
According to David Allen, a productivity consultant, “your head is for having ideas, not holding them. Dumping everything out into a list can have a significant effect.”5 Keep a pen nearby at all times so you can effectively organise tasks and avoid losing track of your progress. It’s also satisfying to tick tasks off your to-do list when they’re complete.
Winc can provide you with all your office product and stationery needs, no matter where your workplace happens to be. Speak to one of our Office Product specialists to discover the best solutions for your individual needs. Register your business account with our Winc Home Delivery service to get all your products delivered straight to your door. Find out more here.
References:
Jansen, R.S., Lakens, D. and IJsselsteijn, W.A., 2017. ‘An integrative review of the cognitive costs and benefits of note-taking.’ Educational Research Review, 22.1
Markman, A., 2017 ‘Your Team Is Brainstorming All Wrong’, <https://hbr.org/2017/05/your-team-is-brainstorming-all-wrong>2
Wonderopolis, 2020. ‘Who Invented Sticky Notes?’, <https://wonderopolis.org/wonder/who-invented-sticky-notes>3
Sander, L., Harvard Business Review. 2019. ‘The Case for Finally Cleaning Your Desk’, <https://hbr.org/2019/03/the-case-for-finally-cleaning-your-desk>4
McGinn, D., Harvard Business Review. 2011. ‘Being More Productive’, <https://hbr.org/2011/05/being-more-productive>5
