Dolly Parton 9 to 5
I thought it’d be fun to start this post about the office with Dolly Parton’s song, “9 To 5.” Remember the movie? Wasn’t their boss something else? Perhaps you’ve had a boss that exhibited similar characteristics. I know I certainly have! I’ll never forget what one of my associates said one day about our boss while we were gabbing around the coffee machine: “He might be an SOB, but he’s OUR SOB!” It still makes me chuckle.
But the offices is NOT all about the boss believe it or not. It takes a lot to make an office work well. Whether you’re operating in a one-person or small office or one of the larger places of work, take a look around and notice all the physical items besides the people. Sure, people are without a doubt THE most important essential in any office. But there are other things that are critical.
Among the generally accepted items necessary in basic office set-up are:
- Office Equipment
- Office Furniture
- Office Supplies
- Presentation Items
- Trade Show Displays
- Audio Visual Equipment
- Projectors
And within each of these items are a number of other categories. Take Office Equipment as an example. Can you imagine working in a place without a fax machine or copier? How did they ever used to do that? Privacy and security issues have seen the evolution of shredders as a necessity in the office equipment category.
My point is that it takes a lot to run the office. And while “the boss” might indeed set the pace, they are not the only ones to determine the tone or work environment. You can impact that even if it’s to a small degree next to you request, order, or purchase supplies. Having the things you need to operate efficiently and at peak performance makes the office hum…like a well-oiled machine. Recall what “the girls” did in the movie when the boss was away. While I don’t advocate kidnapping the boss, you can take the initiative on a number of things to improve your surroundings. Often this will provide a better space resulting in a better office and work environment.
When you look at the evolution of office work and office environments over the last century or two, it is pretty interesting. Wikipedia has a good article that you can read when you click on OFFICE. This will get you started at least in learning more about everything from the history of the office to structures and types. At the least, checking that out can provide a bit of perspective.
Most of us spend at least 2,080 hours each year working. Many of us end up spending those hours in an office, even if we are self-employed and work from home. So, do what you can to make it comfortable and inviting. Put your own stamp on your space within the boundaries that you’re permitted. And when it get’s a bit challenging, remember Dolly’s song and the movie “9 to 5″ and smile.