When it comes to making a good impression at work, you’ll definitely want to have the right tools by your side.
Your workspace and office tools can play an influential role in how you’re perceived. Whether it’s a tidy desk or a classic pen or a stylish notebook, you’re communicating to your coworkers that you are professional, confident, and capable.
Not only that, but the right tools can help you feel more confident and prepared during important work situations, such as:
- Job interviews
- Meetings with senior leaders
- One-on-one meetings with your boss
- Networking opportunities
- Meetings with potential clients
Office tools are also a low-key way to show off your personality. From the cover of your notebook to the design of your notepad, these little details speak volumes about your style.
Having the right tools doesn’t necessarily mean paying an exorbitant amount for the latest gadget or luxury item. The great thing about office tools is that you can find well-made, high-quality items at an affordable price point.
Here’s how you can use the right tools to express your style and help you boost your professional image.
Project confidence with the right tools
They say “dress for the job you want” but don’t forget that your office tools can also help you look the part.
The tools we use can help promote a positive image of ourselves at the office. And if you’re looking to pursue a leadership role or build a strong reputation at work, then you’ll definitely want to make sure that your office tools support your image.
So if you have a big job interview, make sure to bring along a classic notebook to make you feel your best–and make a good impression on the interview panel. Or if you’re looking to be seen as a leader, come prepared to meetings with an elegant notepad and a beautiful pen.
These are small ways to communicate your style and professionalism. When you have high-quality tools by your side, you will naturally feel more confident and at ease.
Elevate your everyday office items
The office tools you use can affect the way people perceive you. For example, spiral notebooks can give off a student or collegiate vibe, which is fine, but might work against you if you’re looking for a managerial role.
So why not give your everyday items a nice upgrade? Swapping a drugstore spiral notebook for a sleek design will make a big impact on your workspace and how others view you.
But if you love using a spiral-bound notebook, don’t worry, you don’t have to give it up. Just swap it for a more sophisticated version. These days, there are so many spiral-bound notebooks out there that are both stylish and functional.
Here are other office tools that you can upgrade:
Post-its. Give your yellow post-its a refresh with this elevated version.
Notepad. Who says a to-do list has to be boring? Opt for a notepad with gold details or a minimalist design. And you’ll definitely notice the difference in paper quality. A nice notepad has thick, smooth paper, which makes it that much better to write on.
Daily planner. There’s nothing like a gorgeous planner to get you excited about your goals and the week ahead. Invest in one that has a stunning, sturdy cover.
Pens. When’s the last time you treated yourself to a nice pen? Pens are one of those office tools that we use all the time, but never think to splurge on. A well-made pen can make a huge difference in your writing experience. A fountain pen, for instance, glides across the page, which means no more hand cramps or worrying about smudges.
These tools will undoubtedly brighten up your workspace and make each day a successful one.
Communicate your style with color
The next time you’re selecting a planner or notebook, make sure to find a color that suits your style.
Certain colors can project wisdom, leadership, and sophistication. For example, purple is often seen as the color of royalty. And indigo is a color that communicates trust and wisdom.
So if you’re looking to be taken more seriously at work, go for a spruce color. Or if you want to communicate cheerfulness and optimism, choose yellow or pink.
Your planner color is a great way to express your personality and influence how you would like to be seen at work.
Stay organized
A messy desk can give the wrong impression. A manager or potential client could have doubts about your professionalism if they see a desk that’s disorganized and piled high with clutter.
Moreover, a cluttered workspace can also contribute to stress and anxiety. It’s hard to feel calm and collected when you’re rifling through desk drawers or staring at heaps of paper.
In order to maintain a professional image at work, you’ll want to keep your desk organized with the proper tools.
You can use a document tray to keep your paperwork in order. And a stackable organizer to store your office supplies while also maximizing deskspace. To keep your workspace tidy, only place your most essential supplies on your desk, such as a planner, a trusty pen, and a notebook.
With these small improvements, you’ll have a workspace that not only looks great, but will help you produce great work.
Don’t forget to say thanks
While thank you cards aren’t usually considered an essential office tool, they can certainly make a lasting impression on your colleagues.
Maybe it’s writing a thank you card after a job interview or a message of thanks to a colleague for a job well done. A handwritten card is a simple but classy way to express your gratitude. And colleagues will always remember that you took the time to write them a note.
You can go the extra mile by selecting a charming design to make your message that much more special.
Expressing thanks is a practice that will always go over well in the office.
By investing in your office tools, you’re also investing in yourself and your career. For more ideas on how to elevate your tools, read our guide here.
Written by JiJi Lee.
