Whether messy or minimalist, your desk can tell visitors to your office and your colleagues and bosses an awful lot about you. The way you organise your desk and its appearance not only has an effect on your work, but also has an impact on the way you are viewed by others. We’ve taken a look at the different types of desk, from cluttered to sparse and looked at what they say about you.
The Clutterer
A desk filled with clutter can show that you are intently focused on your work, but can also show that you lack organisation. Though it does depend on what your desk is cluttered with, you need to be wary of being viewed as messy and potentially lazy, rather than busy.
A desk filled with half-drunk cups of tea shows more than just clutter, but actually can be viewed as messy, so if this sounds like your desk, why not take five minutes and give it a quick tidy.
The Minimalist
Nothing on your desk aside from the bare necessities, then you’re the office minimalist. This shows your commitment to your work, but can make you appear cold and can even have a negative effect on your productivity.
It may be worth adding a plant or a personal item to your desk to improve productivity, providing it won’t be too distracting.
The Horticulturalist
Desk owners that bring the outside in and have potted plants and fresh flowers on their desk could show that they would rather be outside, but may actually be more productive than their colleagues. Studies carried out by Exeter University have shown that employees’ productivity can improve by 15% when their sparse offices have houseplants added to them.
A well-tended plant on your desk can help improve your productivity and can help increase the oxygen in your office. If you’re planning on adopting this style, think carefully when choosing your plants and be careful not to go overboard and end up with a jungle on your desk.
Multiple screens, tablets, smartphones, and other gadgets are common on the desk of a tech-savvy employee. While they’re great at understanding the latest technology trend and are likely to be able to help you fix your computer before the IT crew arrive, they could get easily distracted.
If you find your desk is overrun with smart devices, then perhaps it’s time for a quick tidy. Keep personal devices in drawers or bags, and only have devices that you use to complete your work displayed on your desk.
The Researcher
If your desk is covered with the latest industry reports and books, folders, then it is likely that you’re an avid researcher. This shows your colleagues and employers that you’re good at paying attention to detail but can also show that you never quite get around to reading and analysing the data.
It is worth trying to limit the amount of literature you keep on your desk, especially if it is the only copy in your office as this could prevent others from reading it.
The Artist
Is your desk filled with doodles that you’ve drawn while at work? Then you could have the artist’s desk. Scribbles and drawings can be indicators of a creative mind but can also show that you may not be giving your full attention while at work.
If you do find yourself doodling, perhaps it’s best not to display all of you creations on your desk and instead opt for a few prints to showcase your creativity.
Whatever type of desk you have, it’s essential to make sure that you have enough space. If you’re a business owner and are finding that your employees’ desks are overrun, then perhaps it’s time for an office fit out? We’re office designers who can provide office furniture for Cheltenham, Bristol, and Bath businesses and other locations throughout the south-west. Browse our website to see our products or get in touch to find out how we can help by calling 0117 955 3668.