Running a small business can be an exciting venture, but one that also comes with a lot of challenges. Small businesses need to fight harder in order to compete against the larger companies that dominate their industry. To achieve this, they need to be well-staffed, driven, and extremely organized. If you’re running a small business, you’re probably concerned with your operational workflow. However, if you overlook the equipment and supplies needed to keep your office running, you could run into trouble. That’s why we’ve created this office essentials list for small businesses. Take a few minutes to educate yourself on what you need to maintain a well-oiled operation.
Let’s get started.
Computers and Software
You probably already understand that computers are necessary for communicating and networking in the business world. But it’s important you have the right computers and software for your particular operation.
If your business takes on large projects, you’ll need software that allows your staff to track the lifecycle of each project and seamlessly communicate with offsite team members.
If your primary form of revenue is selling a particular product, you’ll need inventory tracking and accounting software. It’s important to evaluate what each employee needs and make sure they’re equipped to perform their job to the best of their abilities.
You should also plan for computer breakdowns and have backups on hand.
A Copy Machine
Although the business world is largely digital now, most offices still have a need for a commercial copy machine. Most offices also need scanning and fax capabilities.
The good news is there are countless models on the market that perform all these functions.
Plus, when you purchase a high-quality commercial copier, your staff will be able to take advantage of all these capabilities quickly and without malfunction. If you’re looking to buy a quality copier, consider one from Canon. But, before buying take a look at this guide for Canon copier prices so you can make an educated buy.
For small businesses, maintaining a high level of productivity is important. You can’t afford to waste time with copy machine issues.
A Shredder
Keeping you and your client’s information safe is extremely important. While many thieves steal sensitive data digitally, physical information on paper or discs stills makes it into the wrong hands.
You have a legal obligation to keep your client’s information secure. Failing to do so will result in potential repercussions and damage to your reputation.
Make sure you purchase a quality office shredder so you can properly dispose of this information once it’s no longer needed.
If the volume of material you need shredded is relatively high, opt for a commercial shredder with stronger capabilities. There are also shredders on the market that can destroy CDs.
Miscellaneous Necessities
To ensure your office remains productive, it’s a good idea to stock all types of standard office supplies. That way you don’t have to worry about running out of the essentials during the day.
These consist of everyday items any office needs but we usually take for granted.
Some of the more common supplies include:
• Staples and staplers
• Stationary
• Pens
• Pencils
• Markers
• Paper clips
• Folders
• Whiteout
• Rubber bands
• Tape
• Copy paper
Make sure you have a fully stocked storage room at all times and keep an inventory so you’ll know when it’s time to buy more supplies.
Wifi Booster
Internet access is essential for any office, and you’ve likely squared away your service provider. However, you need to be sure every member of your staff has a reliable connection at all times.
Many small businesses either don’t have the need for or can’t afford their own server. If this is the case, investing in a Wifi booster is an easy solution.
Even if you have a small team, many office buildings contain spots where the Wifi signal goes in and out. In this case, a booster will take care of the dead zone.
Dealing with a poor connection will drastically slow down productivity and lead to employee frustration. WIFi boosters help strengthen the existing signal and speed up internet connectivity so you can work without interruption.
The Right Office Furniture
Any productive office needs good office furniture. This means everything from desks and chairs to file cabinets.
When it comes to chairs, it’s a good idea to invest in high-quality, ergonomic furniture. It’s a fact that this type of furniture leads to more productive employees.
You also may need ample file storage, so invest in enough filing cabinets to keep things organized. If your business stores everything digitally, you’ll have room for other types of furniture.
Consider creating an area with comfortable chairs and tables where your staff can relax on their lunch break. You may also need a small couch in a waiting area.
Good furniture not only helps your office function properly, it makes a good impression on clients who visit your business.
Mailing Supplies
It’s important you have enough mailing supplies on hand so you don’t have to go to the post office. Simple mailing supplies include envelopes, stamps and address labels.
If you send out product samples, promotional materials or catalogs, you’ll need more items like large envelopes and packing material.
Depending on the volume of mail leaving your office, you may want to consider a postage meter.
This allows you to apply postage to all your outgoing mail, including heavier objects. Investing in one is a huge time saver.
Use This Office Essentials List to Stock Your Office
When running a small business, daily operations are your primary concern. It’s important you keep your office well-stocked so your staff can concentrate on fulfilling their individual roles to the best of their abilities.
Make sure and check everything you need off of this office essentials list for small businesses and keep your business running smoothly.
For more articles to help you succeed in the business world, check out our blog today.
