Hot Topic Results for organization
- Virtual Project Management with ClientSpot

Article by Jackie Nees: Virtual Project Management with ClientSpot
- Messiest Desk Around? We've Got a Winner!

Article by Libby Huffman: Messiest Desk Around? We've Got a Winner!
- When to Seek Professional Help: Planning that Important Meeting or Event

Article by Caroline Cloutier: When to Seek Professional Help: Planning that Important Meeting or Event
- Organizational Guru, James Mallison, Shares Golden Nuggets of Wisdom

Article by Chrissy Scivicque: Organizational Guru, James Mallison, Shares Golden Nuggets of Wisdom
- Revitalize Your Surroundings: One Company’s Challenge

Discussion by Ilona: Revitalize Your Surroundings: One Company’s Challenge
- More in Less: The Exceptional Part-Time Employee

Article by Jennifer Flaten: More in Less: The Exceptional Part-Time Employee
- Organization for the Hopelessly Disorganized

Article by Libby Huffman: Organization for the Hopelessly Disorganized
- The Email Revolution: Tips and Tools for Effective Email Management

Article by Sara Caputo: The Email Revolution: Tips and Tools for Effective Email Management
- Organize Your Internet Research: A Simple (Paperless) Solution

Article by KatieGatto: Organize Your Internet Research: A Simple (Paperless) Solution
- Get Organized! Choose the Right Calendar

Article by Quill Office Supplies: Get Organized! Choose the Right Calendar
- xobni
Tip by Kristen: xobni
- Need to Get Organized? Dump Your Brain!

Article by Chrissy Scivicque: Need to Get Organized? Dump Your Brain!
- Travel-Size Sets: When Products Become Portable
by OfficeArrow: Travel-Size Sets: When Products Become Portable
- How to Use the 43 Folders Tickler System

Article by Chrissy Scivicque: How to Use the 43 Folders Tickler System
- Keeping Your Cool: Take the Stress Out of Event Planning
Article by Kathy Ver Eecke: Keeping Your Cool: Take the Stress Out of Event Planning
- Organize for Career Success: Attract the Right Kind of Attention

Looking for a secret career-success weapon? Look no further! Learn how being organized can help boost your professional image and improve on-the-job performance. Organization isn't just about being more productive, it's about being more successful.
- Organization and the Outstanding Performer: Create Your Personal System

To achieve outstanding results, you must first create an organizational system that meets your personal needs. From managing your to-do list to scheduling your day, this article addresses the key components necessary for getting organized and becoming an outstanding performer – personally and professionally.
- Organization Innovation: Share and Win!
We all have different ways of staying organized at work. From systems we set up to tools we use, there's a host of different methods to consider for clearing that big pile of paper off your desk and simplifying your work life. Take a moment to share your favorite organization tool and you could win a fabulous prize pack from the organizational experts themselves, Avery.
- OA Book Club: Review of "Organizing From the Inside Out"
In the month of October, the OA Book Club focused our attention on the organizational process. We picked up the bestselling book that explores every aspect of organization. From the psychological obstacles to the step-by-step processes for overcoming them, Julie Morgenstern has created a comprehensive guide to creating order out of chaos.
- Organization Innovation: Contest Winner Revealed

Files, and folders, and labels! Oh my! There are plenty of different ways to stay organized and so, during the month of November, we asked our readers, “What’s your favorite organization tool?” Read more for some great tips that may work for you as well as our winner announcement!
- Be Proud of that Messy Desk! It Could Make You a Winner

Is your desk a disaster zone? Does your office look like a tornado hit it? Stop being embarrassed - we're about to reward you for it! OfficeArrow is here to help you get organized once and for all. We're hosting a super simple contest to find the messiest desk around. Simply email us a picture of the disaster area you call an office and you could win everything you need to get your space under control.
- Managing Time: Prioritization

Part 2 of this series will focus on prioritizing your workload. Explore the many methods of determining what tasks are the most critical to accomplish and use our handy tools to shape up your to-do list.
- Break Room Design for Fun, Functionality and Feng Shui

Break rooms. Most people don’t give them much thought. But if you have a space at work where employees go for a time out from their jobs, then you should consider making that space the best it can be – fun, functional and fully Feng Shui.
- Office Exercises to Decrease the Aches, Pains, and Strains
Feeling achy and stiff? You’re not alone. A majority of the U.S. workforce now sits on the job so it’s no surprise that chronic neck and back pain are common problems among employees. Explore some simple and convenient exercises you can do while sitting at your desk!
- Email Signature: Your Digital Business Card

What’s the fastest, easiest and least expensive way to advertise your business? Use an email signature! Today you’ll discover what to include in your signature, tips for making it work for you, and where to use it to promote your business.
- Get the Most from Your Business: Conduct a SWOT Analysis

Evaluating your company's developmental needs and future direction is essential to the overall success of your business. A SWOT analysis is an excellent evaluation tool for determining your company's overall plans and objectives.
- Advertising 101: Media Basics

You may never have to deal with advertising issues at your company, but knowledge is power, right? So here's a very brief description of the benefits and drawbacks of the major types of media.The benefits of advertising in a major newspaper:
- 4 Tips for the Learn-As-You-Go Method of Productivity

Are you the type of person who likes to learn by doing? This can actually be a very productive way of working – if you know when and how to do it. Like anything, there are benefits and limitations. Discover tips for how to make this productivity tool work for you.
- New Productivity Tool: JUST DO IT ALREADY
Looking for a new and easy way to stay productive? Why not try the oldest trick in the book? Many of us focus on planning, organizing, and mapping only to forget the most important step: doing it. Read our tips for how to get over procrastination and start getting things done.
- Business Etiquette Every Professional Should Know

Think you’re a business etiquette pro? Watching your p’s and q’s during a business function can take your farther than you ever imagined. Investigate the importance of professional manners and how to execute them flawlessly.
- Creating an Elevator Speech

You’ve heard the words before but what the heck is an elevator speech? And how do you use one? We’ll break it down for you and show you what it is, why you need it and how to create one. You’ll also learn the difference between a good elevator speech and a bad one and we’ll give you some ideas on when to use it.
- 10 Low Cost Marketing Ideas

So, you’ve got big dreams for your business, right? But maybe you don’t have that big marketing budget. We’ll show you 10 low cost marketing ideas you can use to let the world know about your company for little or no money!
- How to Organize a Sales Contest

Everyone knows that contests can be a huge source of motivation for employees while having an enormous impact on numbers. The hard part is learning how to organize a fun and productive contest. Read more for simple suggestions on how to manage sales contests and maintain a productive, enthusiastic team.
- Advertising 101: It's My First Time... Be Gentle!
I've been asked to create this column about advertising, marketing, promotions and I have to admit - I'm a little nervous! Shhhh! Don't tell anyone. I keep telling myself I have a degree in writing, so this should be easy. I grew up in a
- Eliminate the Junk from Your Junk Drawer

Is your junk drawer weighing you down? Tired of digging through all those piles to find what you’re looking for? Junk drawers need not be what they imply. Learn to organize your junk and make that drawer a functional part of your office.
- Transform Your Workspace from Drab to Fab!

Is your office feeling dull and lifeless? Let us show you how to make your workspace invigorating (in a tasteful and professional way of course)! We’ll give you simple suggestions to make your office a comfortable, inviting place you want to be.
- Project Management Simplified
Managing a project means overseeing the assignment from conception to completion. It means balancing multiple tasks and deadlines. And it can certainly be daunting at times. Let us help you make the process a bit easier.
- Getting over GTD

In his popular book, Getting Things Done, David Allen describes his comprehensive productivity system. While the GTD method is one of the most widely discussed organizational systems around, we think it might be a little over-hyped. In this article, we analyze the GTD program and share a few “golden nuggets” you’ll be sure to benefit from.
- Productivity Tip: Bring Solutions
Have you ever taken a problem to your boss and gotten an unexpected result? It’s time to put that thinking cap on and hold off on asking the boss for an immediate resolution. Discover a great way to get answers at work, by presenting solutions instead of problems.
- Get a Grip: The Art of the Handshake

Although some cultures bow, offer air kisses or hugs, the handshake is now a universally accepted greeting. Deals are made and promises sealed with this simple gesture. But not all handshakes are created equal. Get some tips for pressing the flesh.
- Boost Your Creativity

Creativity can be an elusive thing…like capturing lightning in a bottle. Help get your juices flowing with our tips for sparking ingenuity and inspiration at home and at the office.
- To Do: Write a List

Many of us probably underestimate the value of a good old fashioned to-do list. Why not take a second look at this productivity tool? It’s so simple, and yet so effective. Let us show you how to put a to-do list to good use.
- Appropriate Cubicle Decor

Because we all spend so much time in our workspaces, it’s important to add our personal touch to it. But, are your toys and knickknacks an extension of your personality or a distraction? Explore the dos and don’ts of appropriately decorating your cubicle or workstation.
- 10 Tips for Effective Sales

As office professionals, we often assist sales teams in closing deals. But do we really have the first clue about sales? Explore tried and true sales methods and how to use them in your career.
- 10 Tips for Organizing Your Desk

Tired of spending so much time looking for stuff on your desk when you could be getting things done? The search is over! We’ve got a 10-step plan that will take your desk from overwhelming to organized in no time!
- 6 Essentials for a Smooth Office Relocation

Is your company moving locations? Stop stressing! The transition can be a lot easier than you think. Take the panic out of relocation and learn some simple ways to take the office from “here” to “there” with ease.
- Create an Emergency Procedures Guide

Emergencies happen when we least expect them. They require a quick response, yet not everyone is equipped with the knowledge to react. Do you know what to do when these things happen? We’ve created a step-by-step tutorial to help you create a Comprehensive Emergency Procedures Guide for your office.
- 10 Tips for Excellent Customer Service

Have you ever had a bad customer service experience? Did it impact your business with that company? Many underestimate the power of excellent service. Explore these 10 recommendations for providing your clients with extraordinary service every day.
- Train Yourself to Focus

Having one of those days where you just can’t seem to get anything done? A lack of focus could be the problem. Explore ways to improve your concentration and perform better at work, even when you just don’t feel like it.
- Managing Time: Tools

We often find ourselves managing projects through completion without any tools or tricks to help us get there. Finding these problem-solvers is a chore and creating them from scratch takes time. Investigate these helpful templates and tips to accomplish things faster and easier.
- Managing Time: Organization

Deciphering information you’ve gathered for a project is often difficult without the proper structure and organization. Over time, we accumulate many helpful resources, yet they often get lost in the piles of papers on our desk. Learn to organize and effectively use your existing resources to accomplish your project.
- Managing Time: Planning

Many people overlook the importance of planning. Each project has many facets that need to be carefully prepared for in order to work through them as effortlessly as possible. Part 4 of this series deals with learning to plan, and using tools and other brainstorming methods to complete tasks thoroughly.
- Office Appearance: From a Client’s Perspective

Although easy to overlook, the physical appearance of your office is very important. Too much clutter is an organizational nightmare but more importantly, it can leave a bad impression with your clientele. Read more about the importance of maintaining a professional-looking, productive workspace and how to address concerns.
- Disguise Your Downtime!

It’s nearly impossible to remain busy for 8 solid hours every single the day, but you should be concerned by how your downtime is being perceived. Downtime can send the wrong impression, but there is hope. Learn ways to make your free time look like work time.
- Ask the Career Consultant: Overwhelmed and Disorganized

Dear Lisa: No matter how hard I try, I just can't seem to get my workspace organized efficiently. I'm continually moving things around on my desk and rearranging files. I feel overwhelmed by my workload and can't get a handle on the best
- Updating Emergency Contacts
Is your office prepared for a hurricane, tornado or medical emergency? Do you know exactly what to do and who to call when something serious happens? Explore the importance of keeping up-to-date emergency contact information for you and your employees.
- What is an RFP?
You’ve heard the acronym, but what the heck does it mean? A Request for Proposal is an incredibly helpful tool when planning a meeting or selecting a service provider. Let us walk you through the process and give you a competitive edge.
- How to Use the 43 Folders Tickler System

Paperwork is one of the most difficult things to keep track of – especially if you don’t need it now, but you know you will need it later! We’ll show you an amazingly helpful system for tracking paperwork and creating reminders for future to-do items. Get ready, get set, get organized!
- Managing Time: Delegation

Part 3 of this 6-part series deals with sharing your workload with others. Delegating tasks can free you up to handle more important or higher priority projects, and allows your co-workers the opportunity to excel with a diverse workload. Learn effective ways to distribute projects and stay abreast of their progress.
- Managing Time: Another New Series

In this 6 part series, we’ll learn how to manage our time effectively and effortlessly. We’ll use tools to help us better prepare. We begin with Libby’s immediate need for finding better ways to handle everything from large projects to everyday tasks. Learn from her experiences in this comprehensive guide.
- Productivity Guru: It's Hard to Make a Difference When You Can't Find Your Desk

There's a great book called 'It's Hard to Make a Difference When you Can't Find Your Keys.' Its author, Marilyn Paul, outlines seven steps to truly becoming organized. After reading it, I couldn't help coming up with my own title: 'It's Hard
- 5 Ways to Make an Annoying Task Less Annoying

Augh! You know you have one: that task that just gets under your skin?? We all do! But now it’s time to take back control. Learn a few proven strategies to help make that irritating task a little bit less frustrating.
- Sara Caputo, Productivity Coach, on Getting Organized

If you know that you need a better system - any system - for organization; if time seems to disappear, or you often feel rushed; if you lose control of your desk or spend what seems like too much of your time sorting, stacking, and sorting
- GTD (with a side of ADD)

Getting Things Done (or GTD), the popular productivity system, is all the rage these days. Yet, it seems that the never-ending quest to be more productive and more efficient can often have the opposite effect. If you feel this way, you’re not alone! Check out this article on the pitfalls of multi-tasking and the challenges of staying productive.
- Around the Web: To Do or NOT to Do

Every week here at OfficeArrow, I scrub the web looking for great tips and fabulous resources so you don't have to! It can be a chore, slogging through all the junk out there. Let me save you time and energy. Stop by every Friday and pick up
- Around the Web: Exorcise Your Disorganization Demons

Every week here at OfficeArrow, I scrub the web looking for great tips and fabulous resources so you don't have to! It can be a chore, slogging through all the junk out there. Let me save you time and energy. Stop by every Friday and pick up
- Pinching that Penny at Work
It’s no secret that times are tough. The soaring gas prices, the plummeting value of the dollar – these things make life harder. But why worry about it at work? But we’ll show you some easy ways to save money at the office so you can focus on earning more of it!
- Accomplish More with Task Batching

Productivity is the buzzword of the moment. Everyone wants to get more done in less time. Now, you really can! This technique will help you collect your to-do items in an efficient way, making productivity easy.
- Proper Cell Phone Etiquette
Ever wonder what’s really appropriate when using your cell phone at work? Should I resist the urge to take this call from my old friend? Is ok to text a quick message to someone? Familiarize yourself with the commandments of cell phone usage at work to minimize distractions and avoid looking unproductive.
- The Art of Balancing Everything
Feeling overwhelmed with managing your life? It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of your daily activities, but we have some ideas for getting your entire life in order. Sound like a big task? It is! We’ll offer some easy ways to balance your life and focus more on doing the things that are truly important.
- Achieving Career Success: Part 2 – 40 Tips to Help Get You There!

No matter what your definition of career success, there are some basic skills that can help anyone achieve their goals. Learn forty things you can do today to help you make your career dreams a reality.
- Past Due: Collections Made Easy
Hate to collect on past due accounts? You’re not alone. While this isn’t the most exciting task, it is a necessity for almost every company at some point. Check out these helpful tips for simplifying the collections process.
- More in Less: The Exceptional Part-Time Employee
Becoming a part-time employee requires a totally different approach than being a full-time one for various reasons. It may be hard to adjust to getting more done in less time. Explore these suggestions for coping with part-time work and what may seem like impossible deadlines.
- Productive Procrastination: AKA Prioritization
At times, we all procrastinate out of necessity – we only have so many hours in the day after all. But would you believe that procrastination can actually be a good thing? Learn how to make it work for you instead of against you and put that nagging sense of guilt behind you.
- Relocate Your Office Without a Hitch
Is your office moving to a new location? Relocating is always stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Check out these tips for getting your move underway with as little disruption or delay as possible.
- Advertising 101: Buying Promotional Items
You've thought about the type of promotional items you're looking for and you're ready to make decisions. Where do you start? 1. Never done this before? You should start with recommendations from friends or co-workers. The best advertising
- Around the Web: What NOT to Say for Success

Every week here at OfficeArrow, I scrub the web looking for great tips and fabulous resources so you don't have to! It can be a chore, slogging through all the junk out there. Let me save you time and energy. Stop by every Friday and pick up
- How to Respectfully Reject Telemarketers
Working in an office, you likely encounter telemarketers every day. They are often hard to shake, but are you treating them with the respect they deserve? Explore ways to avoid frequent telemarketing calls without being rude.
- When to Say No - and When to Say Yes, Sir
When new to a job, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed with your seemingly endless list of tasks. It’s important to remember that you don’t have to say “yes” to every incoming request. Follow these suggestions to find the right balance for what you can handle at work.
- Healthy Snacks to Fight the Afternoon Blahs

It’s easy to feel sleepy and drained at work, usually right around the late afternoon. Check out this list of snacks that are not only good for you, but will also keep you feeling energized throughout the day.
- Welcome EA Toolbox Readers!

Hello and welcome to our EA Toolbox readers. Check out a special message from Chrissy about OfficeArrow and read about our exciting plans for this site.
- How to be Proactive: A Quick Review

Proactive: you’ve heard the term used so much, it’s now meaningless. This article offers a short review of the concept and some helpful ways integrate “proactivity” into your workday. Go on, investigate that overused buzzword!
- How to Map a Project
If you’re just getting started with a big project, you may feel completely overwhelmed and not quite sure where to begin. A map is a great place to start! Learn how to use this helpful tool to track tasks, visualize large-scale concepts, and organize multiple layers of planning. And be sure to check out our sample map to get you inspired.
- Green Your Office: It's Not About Redecorating

These days, everyone is becoming more environmentally responsible but there are some misconceptions about what it takes to do so. Going green doesn’t have to be a drastic undertaking. In fact, it can be quite painless. Explore these 5 easy tips for greening your office!
- LifeLock Unlocked
We've all seen the LifeLock commercials. You know that crazy guy who advertises his social security number all over TV, daring someone to attempt to steal his identity? Well, mission accomplished! According to CNN, Todd Davis, spokesman for
- Organization for the Hopelessly Disorganized
Tired of the endless mess on your desk? Disorganization can leave even the most skilled worker feeling overwhelmed and unproductive. Learn to eliminate the clutter in your life even if you think it’s impossible.
- How to Stay Productive While the Boss is Away
Is your boss out for the week? Resist the temptation to slack off and instead, start getting productive! Check out the following ideas for staying efficient at the office when your boss is on the road.
- The 7 C's of Customer Service
No matter what business you’re in, you’ve got customers to please. We’ve identified the seven most important things you can do to keep them satisfied and loyal to your business. Check out this article, which highlights these areas of expertise associated with superior customer service.
- As Time Goes By: Tips for Managing Our Most Precious Resource

No matter what we do, we only have a limited supply of time (and who couldn’t use a little more?). Learn how to make the most of what you have by managing it well.
- Productivity Tool: My Survival Guide
It’s a jungle out there. What can you do to be better equipped on the job? Create a survival guide, of course! Discover the ultimate tool for surviving at the office and be ready for anything.
- Productivity Tool: My Back Up File
You’ve all probably backed up your computer, but have you considered backing up other important things, like tasks and conversations within the office? Discover a new way to stay organized at work: a Back Up File for all of those details you don’t want to lose track of at work.
- Advertising 101: Five Things to Consider When Buying Promotional Items
Look around your desk, office, house. You have promotional items staring at you from every corner, don't you? The pen you're using, mouse pad, calendar, paper clip dispenser, frame that holds your kids' picture, your key ring, magnets on your
- How to Celebrate an Employee's Birthday

Office birthdays are usually a fun occasion, but it’s often left to the office professionals to host such events. For those of us left to our own devices, it’s difficult to know how to celebrate the occasion fairly for all employees. So what is proper protocol? We share tried and true methods of celebrating office birthdays.
- Zen Your Office
Your workspace should ideally be comfortable, simple, and free of distractions. Anything else can make you less productive. The good news: simplifying your office can be quite easy. Learn some tricks to make your space a peaceful sanctuary and enjoy the beauty of Zen at work.
- Performance Reviews: Are You Prepared to Get a Raise?
Is it time for your annual performance review? If you’re unsure about how you’ll do, there are a few simple things you can do to help direct the conversation in your favor. Explore some ideas for getting the praise (and pay raise) that you rightly deserve.
- Are You an Over-Complicator?

Can you turn the simplest thing into a crazy complicated mess? If so, you may be guilty of being an over-complicator. Learn more about your condition and how to make the best of it.
- Tips for Performing Well Under Pressure
Do you work in a demanding position where stress feels like it comes with the territory? It can be easy to feel overwhelmed when facing tight deadlines and high powered bosses, but you’ve still got to get the job done. Here are a few ideas for coping with stress and a high pressure work environment.
- Save the Earth: Start with Your Office
Saving the plant is a big job. Why not start small and “green” your office? It’s easier than you think! From recycling to carpooling, we have a few suggestions and simple ways to make your office more environmentally friendly
- Resolve to Manage Your Time
Time is truly the most precious natural resource – and it’s in limited supply! With all of the daily demands put on you by work and life in general, it can be hard to accomplish the things you really want to do. You have to manage the time you have to the best of your ability. We’ve got a few suggestions for how to prioritize and gain control of your life, one minute at a time.
- Change Management

What do you think of when you hear the word ‘change’? Some fear it and others accept it as a sign of opportunity. Change in the workplace is natural, although it can be challenging at times. What do you think of when you hear the word ‘change’? Some fear it and others accept it as a sign of opportunity. Change in the workplace is natural, although it can be challenging at times. What do you think of when you hear the word ‘change’? Some fear it and others accept it as a sign of opportunity. Change in the workplace is natural, although it can be challenging at times. Explore some tips for managing and embracing change instead of resisting and fearing it.
- Clean Your Screen with Actual Windows Minimizer

Most of us use a wide variety of computer programs throughout the day. Instead of opening and closing them over and over again, we usually just minimize, creating a long line of labeled boxes at the bottom of our computer screens. This can be a bulky, cluttered way of handling Windows. But, as you might guess, our tech expert has a tool to make your life easier.
- Get Over Procrastination: It’s as Easy as 1,2,3,4

If you keep telling yourself, “I’ll do it later,” then you might have a little problem with procrastination. While the emotions behind putting things off are real and deep, it’s probably not very productive. Discover ways to overcome procrastination in 4 easy steps.
- Build Your Email List in 3 Easy Steps

Marketing your company’s products and services through email is an inexpensive way to reach a lot of people. But how do you go about obtaining email addresses and getting permission to use them? Building your email list is challenging but we’ve got some helpful tips to get you going!
- Filing A to Z

Ask any office professional and, nine times out of ten, they’ll tell you that filing is among their least favorite tasks. While we can’t guarantee that filing will suddenly become a thrill-a-minute, we can offer a few tips to help make the process faster, easier and more effective. Sorry, we can’t do it for you.
- 10 Must-Have Brainstorming Tools

Looking to get more from your brain? Brainstorming in business is essential. Check out the latest and greatest tools to help you generate new ideas (and track their implementation) throughout the life of your projects.
- 5 Productivity Tools for Telecommuters

Working outside of the office is becoming much more common these days. With modern technology, most of us can accomplish our work from anywhere with just a few basic pieces of equipment. If you’re telecommuting, or considering getting started, we have five essential tools that will help boost your productivity.
- Call Management Tool: Creating and Using a Phone Log

If you’re struggling with an overwhelming amount of calls, it’s time to get organized. Using a message pad alone is simply not efficient call management. Check out the ultimate organizational tool for incoming communication and grab our template to get started.
- Easy Tricks to Help You Track Down and Analyze Research Data (Part 1)

If your supervisor has ever asked you to conduct research to answer a question about a particular topic, even something as simple as what will the weather be like in another city next week, you understand how important it is to know how to conduct research. Here is the first of a two-part article that will provide you some tips on how to track down research data.
- Easy Tricks to Help You Track Down and Analyze Research Data (Part 2)

In this second part of our two-part series, you will now find out how to take the data that you’ve gathered, analyze it and come up with an answer to the question(s) you asked at the beginning of your search. Here are some helpful tips on how to analyze research data.
- Cinderella’s Solution to Impossible Deadlines

Tasks that take more time than employees have available can cause enormous stress in the office. While these kinds of projects are nearly impossible to complete on time, they’re even more impossible to avoid. Learn a few simple ways to constructively deal with these deadlines and make the impossible possible.
- Fabulous First Impressions Start in the Reception Area
If your reception is a disaster area, you might be giving the wrong impression of your company. Creating an inviting atmosphere for you clients takes thought and effort. Use these tips for turning your reception area from drab to fab.
- Effective Use of Your Marketing Budget in a Challenging Economy

It’s no secret that we’re all experiencing tough economic times. But marketing is still an essential part of growing a business. So, how do you effectively use your marketing dollars these days? We’ve got some helpful ideas.
- Forming Partnerships - What to Consider when Going into Business with Friends

Are you considering joining forces with a friend to create a business? Be careful! This can be a disaster waiting to happen. Learn what you need to consider before making the jump.
- Buried Treasures: Best of OA - February 18, 2009

As most of you know, the OfficeArrow website is an enormous treasure chest of information. But there’s so much; it’s easy to miss some of the best stuff! So, we’re digging up some of our “oldies but goodies” and exposing our hidden treasures.
- Business Cards: Your Own Wallet-Sized Billboard

Got Cards? Business cards, that is. These hand held billboards are vital marketing tools for any business. Today we'll show you why you need them, how to create yours quickly and inexpensively, and what to do with them once you have them.
- The Productivity Guru: Why We Learned Everything about Organization in Kindergarten

You reach for the jobs section of your local newspaper and sigh. Another employer is seeking candidates with “strong time-management and organization skills?” Ugh. How are you supposed to learn these traits? Perhaps it’s time to take a trip down memory lane and cover some key lessons taught in kindergarten. Chances are that you learned the basics of these skills before you could even ride a bike.
- American Folder Company: Proud Supporter of Office Superheroes

Are you an office superhero? Do you fight the organizational chaos that occurs around every corner in the workplace? If so, you know how important it is to have the best tools at your disposal. American Folder Company makes our superhero duties a little easier. Learn how they’re supporting you and take advantage of their special offer.
- Angry Customers: Deal With It

Does your company go above and beyond for your customers? The way you treat your clients when they’re upset can make or break your business. Explore these techniques for dealing with customer complaints.
- Avoiding Common Grammar and Punctuation Errors

The American English language can be very confusing. And while there are certain memorable tips – “i before e except after c” – mostly it is a matter of studying hard and remembering the rules. Here are some of the more confusing grammar and punctuation errors, and tips for how to avoid them.
- Direct Marketing: Genius or Just Annoying

Looking for a way to get your product in front of the masses? Direct marketing might be the answer to increasing sales. Learn about this dynamic method of marketing and how it can work for your business.
- 30 Minutes to Effective Email Campaigns

These days, most of us are running low on time and money. But the email marketing experts over at VerticalResponse have some good news! You can create an effective, profitable email campaign in just thirty minutes! Surprised? Learn a few simple tricks that will save you some serious time.
- Flow Chart Basics: Providing a Step-by-Step Depiction of a Process

The purpose of a flow chart is to visually illustrate a step-by-step process. If you’re guiding someone through a series of tasks, a flow chart can effectively demonstrate how a process works. Learn how to utilize this extremely beneficial tool.
- Budget Cuts: Money-Saving Tips for Home or Office

Whether you’re at home, in the office or work from a home office, saving money is a top priority in today’s ecomony. So, it’s important to examine your current processes and assess whether there’s a better way to do them. Learn eight beneficial tips to help you save money at your home or office.
- Ahead of the Game: How to Conduct a Competitive Analysis

If you’re wondering how your organization stacks up against the competition, then it’s time to conduct a competitive analysis. This can help you understand your place in the market, competitive advantages and disadvantages, and available resources and priorities. Stay ahead of the game by utilizing this highly beneficial tool.
- Clean and Clutter-Free Desk Contest

This week marks the beginning of National Cleaning Week. Are you keeping that New Year’s resolution to stay organized? As a follow-up to the Messy Desk contest last November, post before and after pictures of your newly clutter-free work spaces – and win!
- Around the Web: The Stars Are Aligned

Every week here at OfficeArrow, we scrub the Web looking for great tips and fabulous resources so you don't have to! It can be a chore, slogging through all the junk out there. Let us save you time and energy. Stop by every Friday and pick up your cheat sheet of all the great stuff we've found around the Web in the last seven days!
- At Your Service: How to Right a Customer Service Wrong

Oops! Something went wrong, and now a customer is upset. Whether it was a miscommunication, a poorly trained employee, or something else entirely, you now have to solve the problem and save the relationship. Read on to learn how to handle this situation.
- The Productivity Guru: Spring Clean Your File Cabinet

Ah, springtime: Breezy walks in the park, fragrant flowers adorning your garden, shopping for a new wardrobe and ….cleaning! If “spring cleaning” sends you into a tizzy, our Productivity Guru is here to help. Read on to learn how to effectively organize your file cabinet and eliminate the junk!
- The Productivity Guru: The Importance of Minding the Gap

Looking for a professional mantra to help you maintain focus? Maybe it’s time that you “mind the gap.” Our productivity guru explains why it’s crucial to evaluate gaps and inconsistencies in our lives – and how we can fight against them.
- April Challenge: Spring into Action!

This month, our Career Consultant challenges you to spring into action and eliminate the junk. Does your cubicle look like something died in it? Do your coworkers regularly comment about your less-than-organized office? Read on to learn how to clear out the clutter and boost productivity in April.
- Get a Life: How to be Productive Outside of the Office

When you work 40, 50, 60 or even 70 hours a week, the only thing on your mind at the end of the day is to fall into a comfortable bed and sleep. But, what a waste of your personal time! That’s why it’s so critical to incorporate balance into your life and ensure that you spend an equal amount of your waking hours fulfilling personal goals.
- Filing Solutions: Your Complete Guide to Paper Management

Whether you’re setting up a new filing system or just trying to maximize the efficiency of the one you’ve got, this comprehensive guide offers everything you need to get the job done. Learn how to manage your paper with simple solutions that will change the way you think of filing – from storage to retrieval to finding that mysterious “missing” file.
- Business Writing Essentials, Part 1: Better Communication in Three Easy Steps

Today’s business world places more importance than ever on traditional business writing. Regardless of what you’re writing – whether it’s an e-mail, a memo, or a comprehensive annual report – the same basic principles apply. In part one of this series, learn how to communicate better in three simple steps.
- Business Writing Essentials, Part 2: Driving Home Your Message and Keeping Your Reader's Attention

The ability to produce well-written business documents is a key contributor to career success. This series provides a step-by-step guide to help you produce high-quality business materials that demonstrate your professionalism. In this article, learn how to create an effective message and keep your readers focused.
- The Perfect Place: Office Organization for the Way YOU Work

What type of worker are you? Does your office organization support the work you do and how you do it? If you’re not quite sure, the pros over at Steelcase have done a little research to help you understand your own unique work style and how to create an environment that promotes productivity. Read on to learn more.
- Business Writing Essentials, Part 3: Adapting Your Technique for Different Documents

In today’s business world, you may find yourself writing memos, reports, emails, and letters on a daily basis. Do you know how to adapt your writing technique for each different form of communication? In the final installment of this series, you’ll learn the specific do’s and don’ts for each type of document you may encounter.
- Boosting Productivity by Creating Your Personal Mission Statement

It’s tough to know if you’ve accomplished what you set out to if you haven’t defined your goal. That’s why creating a personal mission statement can not only help you focus on what you want in life, but it can keep you productively moving in the right direction.
- Decision-Making 101: Using 10-10-10 to Help Define Your Options

With so many options or issues to consider, it’s often difficult to make the right decision. So, how do you move past this roadblock? Consider using the “10-10-10” formula for decision-making. Read on to learn more about this life-transforming principle.
- Expert Advice: Five Tips for Hosting a Panel Discussion

Are you planning a company event that will include a panel presentation, speaker’s forum, group demonstration or some other creative process of presenting information? If so, you need to organize your event in a way that ensures it runs seamlessly. Read on to learn five tips for hosting a panel discussion.
- Ask the Career Consultant: How to Not to Annoy Your Boss

Do you ever feel like your boss considers you a nuisance? If so, our Career Consultant has helpful advice on how to handle this potentially problematic situation. Read on to learn how to deal with a moody boss and establish a mutually beneficial relationship.
- Manage Your Contacts: How to Effectively Organize Business Cards

Remember when you would exchange business cards with someone and then place theirs into your Rolodex? Well, collecting business cards isn’t that straightforward anymore. Now, you have to decide why you’re collecting it (Courtesy?) and what you will do with it afterward (Scan it?).Here are some things to consider when collecting business cards.
- Lost in the Sauce: Why Perfectionism Can Diminish Your Productivity

Wanting to do things correctly is a good attribute. Having to do things correctly to the point that you're unable to let go of a project or issue once it has been solved is not. Although it may seem counterintuitive, perfectionism is one of
- Make Do with Less: Inexpensive Organization Options

Are you living in mess? If you’re tired of unruly clutter encroaching on your life, learn how to use everyday items for organizational purposes. The best part? These household staples won’t break the bank.
- Why Less is More, Part 2: Making M.O.R.E. for Yourself

In the second installment of this series, our Productivity Goddess shares her secrets to doing less while accomplishing more. What exactly does "more" mean for YOU? Find out!
- Productivity Through Others: How to be a Delegation Diva

It’s time to take on new work assignments, but you’re having trouble letting go of your current tasks. Secretly, you feel that no one can live up to your abilities. Or, maybe you just enjoy the work too much to turn it over to someone else. In this article, learn how to delegate like a pro.
- Stop Wasting Your Time Organizing Receipts: Shortcuts Found Here

Whether you travel regularly for work or attend frequent business dinners, you know that it’s important to hold onto your receipts. However, instead of filing and scanning them using traditional scanners, perhaps it’s time to try another option. In this informative article, learn helpful shortcuts for scanning receipts.
- The Productivity Guru: Are You Holding on Too Tightly?

Do you have a hard time letting go of things? Perhaps it’s that dress from the ’70s that hasn’t fit you since your 16th birthday; maybe it’s those credit card statements from 10 years ago. Regardless of what you’re holding on to, our Productivity Guru is here to help you purge it. Don’t miss out.
- Junk Drawer Galore: Enter to Win

We all have accumulated some pretty strange things in and around our desks over the years. This week’s contest focuses on a lighter topic: the oddities in your junk drawer. Check out the details and you could get rewarded for the nuttiest knick-knack in your junk drawer.
- What a Waste: Where Does Your Time at Work Go?

Do you feel like you're always taking one step forward and three steps back, while your responsibilities pile higher and higher? It may be time to re-examine how you handle your workload in order to determine where time is being wasted and how to improve your overall efficiency.
- The Productivity Guru: Do Your Systems Work For You?

Are you concerned about your organizational system, wondering if it's the "right" thing to be doing? Our productivity expert provides you with a quick checklist to help you determine if your system is a keeper.
- The Productivity Puzzle: What's Your Missing Piece?

Have you been struggling to get organized but it just hasn't "clicked" yet? Are you trying to be more productive but it's just not happening? We all have our own personal productivity puzzle and, when one piece is missing, we're unable to achieve peak performance. Presented by Sara Caputo of Radiant Organizing, this webinar explores the critical components that make up your productivity puzzle and helps you figure out what's been missing once and for all.
- Nature or Nurture: Five Ways to Learn How to Organize

Not a natural-born organizer? Don't give up hope! With the right tools and a little discipline, learning how to organize is something anyone can do. Find out what it takes to get organized and then, take the DIY personality quiz to see where you land on the organizational scale.

