ARoundTuit Organizing & Productivity

Here are the three killer questions I ask clients to help them take action against clutter:

Do you need it?

In this category fall the many types of document a business is required to keep for a limited period of time, and some not at all.  Digital files are now acceptable in many instances, which allows you to move the originals off-site, or even destroy them (WHAT?!).  Also in this category are some types of statements and invoices.

Ask a CPA or visit www.irs.gov for the latest on document retention requirements and recommendations for your type of business.

Do you use it?

What’s cool about hoarding office supplies? Clear out the eight-pack of sticky-notes and staple refills, and you’ll have a drawer in which to put items you need to have accessible.  What to trash? Among other things, obsolete manuals and technology, and any memento that does not give you actual pleasure. Don’t walk, but run to dispose of mementos (your own property!) that make you feel badly about yourself, your career or your company.

Could you get it easily somewhere else?

The most obvious example of this is telephone company directories.  Through my experience, I am led to believe that people may think they are required to keep these, like users’ manuals.  I don’t wonder more than my clients why, oh why, do we keep heaps of virtually useless paper? If there is one thing you can get easily in this day and age, it’s a phone number.  Even if it’s not listed, you can ask a colleague or call information.

Stop unwanted directories at www.yellowpagesgoesgreen.org.