Desk Clutter; A Telltale sign.

I was asked to meet with the Group Head of a fairly large company to discuss training and coaching, only for it to be postponed. Twice. 2 weeks apart. Finally, we met a month later, 10 minutes after the appointed time, though I had arrived early. No meeting room had been arranged. So, I was ushered to the room.

We exchanged name cards. Only then I realized there was no free place to put down the name card. Every inch of the fairly large sized table was covered with stacks of paper, small files and books. The top of the long half-shelves running across and on the side were overflowing.

Coffee was offered, I preferred water. A 750-ml water bottle was thrust in my hand by an assistant. Thankfully, only one telephone interruption, yet the eyes were darting to the computer every 3 seconds, as a careful driver on a highway might. I was trying not to accidentally spill water on the important papers scattered around.

We discussed backgrounds, experience, training programs, executive coaching, handed over brochures and all the related stuff. It didn’t matter. It was clearly evident that help was needed at the very top.

The cluttered desk said it all.

I left, picking up the name card I was handed, which was sitting on a book ironically titled “Talent Management”!

Now – whip out smartphone and take a picture of your desk or workspace; Ask your team to do like-wise. Be honest, as the state of your desk is a mirror of how much you are on top of your job. Send it to me.

If your desk is indeed cluttered…. you and/or your team need help. And fast.

Before it is too late and the piles of paper overwhelm you.

Here are Five steps that can help you have a Clutter-Free Desk and Life

Get a Coach; Gain clarity; Set priorities; Manage time; Gain control of work & Life;

Help is at hand. You know where and how to reach me.

All the best.