Multiple Hats Office Administration Hacks

Whether you are a Startup or an established small business a well run office is critical to the health and culture of the business. As in these types of businesses, wearing many hats is a given but with the simple hacks I’ve noted below you’ll run a smooth operation:

1. Say no to Apple’s (5-10%) discount! Consider comparison shopping on BestBuy, Walmart, Newegg and Amazon. (I found Amazon to have the best deal most of the time).
2. Create a visual office supplies inventory system. See how to create one here
3. Develop HR templates for every possible scenario or activity (e.g., new hire email, potential hire interview request, harassment complaint form, et cetera.)
4. Invest in an external hard-drive/USB to back up all your data and make sure you keep it in a fire/water proof box.
5. Label and organize all office supplies and periodically review with team where all items are kept.
6. Create different calendars with tiers, Tier 1 Calendar (Critical Meetings includes office and client meetings), Tier 2 (Office/HR related notices, such as, deliveries), and Tier 3 (PTO requests).
7. Actively record all office assets with their skus, model, upc, location and employee information in an Excel sheet.
8. If your office offers snacks and beverages, buying bulk is the way to go. Amazon and Ebay are your best bet!
9. If your company uses Quickbooks online, utilize the recurring transactions feature to automate fixed invoices and bills.
10. Deposit at the office! Ask your bank if they offer a check scanner as this will reduce the time it takes for you to deposit checks as you will be able to do it right from the office!