So many workers are now working from home on a daily basis. Our homes have turned into our workplace. It is important to set up a space in your home where you can easily and efficiently work from. Here are our Top Tips to help you set up your home office.
Tip #1: Make a list of what you need
First things first you need to make a priority list of all the things you need for your home office. Think through all the supplies you would normally need or use in the company office and work from there. Making a list will help you stay on track and ensure you get all the supplies you need.
Tip #2: Choose a dedicated area
Choose an area in your house where you can set up your working-from-home office space. This could be a spare room or a small nook in a quiet part of the house. Some people are even using garden sheds or log cabins as their new HQ. When choosing a space, make sure you have access to electrical sockets, that wi-fi signal is good and that you have phone signal for calls. It is a good idea to locate your workspace close to a window to avail of natural light.
Tip #3: Plan for workspace and storage
Next you need to decide on what type of desk and storage is right for your needs and space. Ensure you get furniture and supplies that will fit your space and fulfil your criteria. Don’t buy anything too small or too big - pick products that will work for you and your space. If you have a lot of files and folders, invest in storage facilities so you can store them
Tip #4: Have proper lighting
Lighting is key for a workspace. When choosing your location try to pick a space that has good natural lighting. As the months roll on into Autumn and Winter you will need lighting sources for your workspace to prevent eye strain and headaches.
Tip #5: Invest in the right equipment
We are often tempted to purchase furniture and equipment that is cheap and cheerful but this can often result in you having to pay even more as the cheap products need to be replaced on a regular basis. Invest in the right equipment for you and your workspace. Don’t go crazy buying every product but instead stick to your list of necessities and essentials. Buy good quality products once and you won’t have to buy them again for a long time.
Tip #6: Keep your professional life separate
This is something that a lot of people have struggled with over the last few weeks. It is very hard to keep your work and family life separate. We have all seen the funny interviews on TV where the children steal the limelight from their Mums and Dads with their surprise appearances.
It is important to set boundaries and to have rules in place. If you are busy at work have a system in place where the kids can still talk with you but in a controlled way. Have a traffic light sign outside the door - when green the kids can come and go freely but when red they must stay outside. This is a simple way to keep control of the situation.
If you live in a child-free household you can still encounter problems with housemates, siblings or parents causing distractions and interruptions. Put some rules in place and let people know your schedule. If you have an important call, let them know about it so they don’t cause any commotions. The best way to do this is to write your schedule on the fridge each day - this will keep your housemates in the loop and save you from any embarrassing situations.
Tip #7: Establish work hours
Since working from home became the new normal, many of us are now working longer hours and struggling to keep a schedule. It is important to break your day up by the Rule of 8; 8 hours for sleeping, 8 hours for working and 8 hours for socialistaion (i.e. Netflix binges). Sticking to this rule will allow you to keep a good work-life balance. It will also help your physical and mental wellbeing.
Tip #8: Keep organised
So little time, so much to do? We’ve all been there! Create a To-Do List each week and use it to keep track of tasks. In your Diary keep track of calls, zoom calls and deadlines. By writing down your tasks and schedule you will be able to get organised and stay organised.
The Fagans Working From Home Essentials:
Office Desk
Cantilever Desk Beech/White 800 x 600
An ideal solution for the home office. Cantilever Desk Beech 800 x 600. Beech Top with silver Frame. Flat Packed. Price: €125 (excl. VAT)
Shop here (beech): https://www.fos.ie/cantilever-desk-beech-800-x-600
Shop here (white): https://www.fos.ie/cantilever-desk-white-800-x-600
Office Chair
Executive High Back Mesh Chair
High Back Executive Mesh Chair with Adjustable Arms and 2 Lever Mechanism. Gives great Lumbar Support. Price: €299 (excl. VAT)
Shop here: https://www.fos.ie/executive-high-back-mesh-chair
Printer
Brother MFC-L2710DW Mono Laser All-In-One Printer MFCL2710DWZU1
The Brother MFC-L2710DW Mono 4-in-1 printer is a quiet, compact mono multi-functional laser printer designed for a busy home or small office environment to provide crisp, high quality text quickly. Designed to be quickly set-up and fully operational within minutes, the printer is made from robust and durable materials for a long lasting lifespan. Capable of full duplex printing from a 250 capacity tray or a manual feed slot that can handle a wide variety of paper types. The scanning function is both mono and colour capable with additional 50 sheet Automatic Document Feeding ability. An address book is available that can store up to 200 entries for either emails or fax numbers. Price: €158.53
Shop here: https://www.fos.ie/brother-mfc-l2710dw-mono-laser-all-in-one-printer-mfcl2710dwzu1--5
Headset
Wired Headset - Freestyle Hi-Fi Stereo
Elegant looks, excellent sound quality and impressive quality. This is the product for demanding customers. Ideal for schools, offices, etc.Perfect solution for notebooks, smartphones, laptops and PCs - microphone on the hook. Additionally there is adapter from 2 mini jack to 1 x mini jack - for smartphones and tablets. Main advantages: Extra Bass System, Comfortable headband, Modern design. Price: €16.22 (excl. VAT)
Shop here: https://www.fos.ie/wired-headset-freestyle-hi-fi-stereo
Laptop / Monitor Stand
Q-Connect Monitor/Printer Stand Black/Grey KF2008
Suitable for TFT/LCD monitors or printers, this Q-Connect Monitor Stand features a durable design with a handy storage drawer for paper supplies. The stand also features an additional space below the drawer for laptop storage. This monitor stand has a fixed height of 113mm and a maximum weight capacity of 15kg. This pack contains 1 stand in black/grey.
Shop here: https://www.fos.ie/q-connect-monitor-printer-stand-drawer-black-kf20081--6
Wireless Keyboard & Mouse
Logitech MK270 Wireless Desktop 920-004523
This wireless keyboard and mouse feature Logitech Advanced 2.4GHz technology with a range of up to 10 metres. 8 customisable shortcut keys give you instant access to your most frequently used applications, such as internet, music and email. The mouse is compact in size and has an extended battery life of up to 12 months, whilst the keyboard will last for up to 24 months without changing the battery.
Shop here: https://www.fos.ie/logitech-mk270-wireless-desktop-920-004523--5
Storage Unit/Filing Cabinet
Note Mobile Pedestal with 3 Drawer 300mm
Bisley Note Pedestal Storage Unit. 3 Drawers - Heavy Duty. 300mm wide. Price: €134 (excl. VAT)
Shop here: https://www.fos.ie/note-mobile-pedestal-with-3-drawer-300mm
Facemask(s) - for when you need to leave the home office
Reusable Cloth Masks 5x7in 4 Layer Cotton Black/White (Pack of 5)
These cloth face masks are made from 4 layers of cotton, making them soft and comfortable to wear. Designed to help prevent the spread of viruses and microbes, these non-surgical protective masks measure 5 x 7 inches and are supplied in a pack of 5 in black. Price: €15.26 (excl. VAT)
Shop here (black): https://www.fos.ie/reusable-cloth-masks-5x7in-4-layer-cotton-black-pack-of-5-sy-200425b--2
Shop here (white): https://www.fos.ie/reusable-cloth-masks-5x7in-4-layer-cotton-white-pack-of-5-sy-200425w--2
So many workers are now working from home on a daily basis. Our homes have turned into our workplace. It is important to set up a space in your home where you can easily and efficiently work from. Here are our Top Tips to help you set up your home office.
Tip #1: Make a list of what you need
First things first you need to make a priority list of all the things you need for your home office. Think through all the supplies you would normally need or use in the company office and work from there. Making a list will help you stay on track and ensure you get all the supplies you need.
Tip #2: Choose a dedicated area
Choose an area in your house where you can set up your working-from-home office space. This could be a spare room or a small nook in a quiet part of the house. Some people are even using garden sheds or log cabins as their new HQ. When choosing a space, make sure you have access to electrical sockets, that wi-fi signal is good and that you have phone signal for calls. It is a good idea to locate your workspace close to a window to avail of natural light.
Tip #3: Plan for workspace and storage
Next you need to decide on what type of desk and storage is right for your needs and space. Ensure you get furniture and supplies that will fit your space and fulfil your criteria. Don’t buy anything too small or too big - pick products that will work for you and your space. If you have a lot of files and folders, invest in storage facilities so you can store them
Tip #4: Have proper lighting
Lighting is key for a workspace. When choosing your location try to pick a space that has good natural lighting. As the months roll on into Autumn and Winter you will need lighting sources for your workspace to prevent eye strain and headaches.
Tip #5: Invest in the right equipment
We are often tempted to purchase furniture and equipment that is cheap and cheerful but this can often result in you having to pay even more as the cheap products need to be replaced on a regular basis. Invest in the right equipment for you and your workspace. Don’t go crazy buying every product but instead stick to your list of necessities and essentials. Buy good quality products once and you won’t have to buy them again for a long time.
Tip #6: Keep your professional life separate
This is something that a lot of people have struggled with over the last few weeks. It is very hard to keep your work and family life separate. We have all seen the funny interviews on TV where the children steal the limelight from their Mums and Dads with their surprise appearances.
It is important to set boundaries and to have rules in place. If you are busy at work have a system in place where the kids can still talk with you but in a controlled way. Have a traffic light sign outside the door - when green the kids can come and go freely but when red they must stay outside. This is a simple way to keep control of the situation.
If you live in a child-free household you can still encounter problems with housemates, siblings or parents causing distractions and interruptions. Put some rules in place and let people know your schedule. If you have an important call, let them know about it so they don’t cause any commotions. The best way to do this is to write your schedule on the fridge each day - this will keep your housemates in the loop and save you from any embarrassing situations.
Tip #7: Establish work hours
Since working from home became the new normal, many of us are now working longer hours and struggling to keep a schedule. It is important to break your day up by the Rule of 8; 8 hours for sleeping, 8 hours for working and 8 hours for socialistaion (i.e. Netflix binges). Sticking to this rule will allow you to keep a good work-life balance. It will also help your physical and mental wellbeing.
Tip #8: Keep organised
So little time, so much to do? We’ve all been there! Create a To-Do List each week and use it to keep track of tasks. In your Diary keep track of calls, zoom calls and deadlines. By writing down your tasks and schedule you will be able to get organised and stay organised.
The Fagans Working From Home Essentials:
Office Desk
Cantilever Desk Beech/White 800 x 600
An ideal solution for the home office. Cantilever Desk Beech 800 x 600. Beech Top with silver Frame. Flat Packed. Price: €125 (excl. VAT)
Shop here (beech): https://www.fos.ie/cantilever-desk-beech-800-x-600
Shop here (white): https://www.fos.ie/cantilever-desk-white-800-x-600
Office Chair
Executive High Back Mesh Chair
High Back Executive Mesh Chair with Adjustable Arms and 2 Lever Mechanism. Gives great Lumbar Support. Price: €299 (excl. VAT)
Shop here: https://www.fos.ie/executive-high-back-mesh-chair
Printer
Brother MFC-L2710DW Mono Laser All-In-One Printer MFCL2710DWZU1
The Brother MFC-L2710DW Mono 4-in-1 printer is a quiet, compact mono multi-functional laser printer designed for a busy home or small office environment to provide crisp, high quality text quickly. Designed to be quickly set-up and fully operational within minutes, the printer is made from robust and durable materials for a long lasting lifespan. Capable of full duplex printing from a 250 capacity tray or a manual feed slot that can handle a wide variety of paper types. The scanning function is both mono and colour capable with additional 50 sheet Automatic Document Feeding ability. An address book is available that can store up to 200 entries for either emails or fax numbers. Price: €158.53
Shop here: https://www.fos.ie/brother-mfc-l2710dw-mono-laser-all-in-one-printer-mfcl2710dwzu1--5
Headset
Wired Headset - Freestyle Hi-Fi Stereo
Elegant looks, excellent sound quality and impressive quality. This is the product for demanding customers. Ideal for schools, offices, etc.Perfect solution for notebooks, smartphones, laptops and PCs - microphone on the hook. Additionally there is adapter from 2 mini jack to 1 x mini jack - for smartphones and tablets. Main advantages: Extra Bass System, Comfortable headband, Modern design. Price: €16.22 (excl. VAT)
Shop here: https://www.fos.ie/wired-headset-freestyle-hi-fi-stereo
Laptop / Monitor Stand
Q-Connect Monitor/Printer Stand Black/Grey KF2008
Suitable for TFT/LCD monitors or printers, this Q-Connect Monitor Stand features a durable design with a handy storage drawer for paper supplies. The stand also features an additional space below the drawer for laptop storage. This monitor stand has a fixed height of 113mm and a maximum weight capacity of 15kg. This pack contains 1 stand in black/grey.
Shop here: https://www.fos.ie/q-connect-monitor-printer-stand-drawer-black-kf20081--6
Wireless Keyboard & Mouse
Logitech MK270 Wireless Desktop 920-004523
This wireless keyboard and mouse feature Logitech Advanced 2.4GHz technology with a range of up to 10 metres. 8 customisable shortcut keys give you instant access to your most frequently used applications, such as internet, music and email. The mouse is compact in size and has an extended battery life of up to 12 months, whilst the keyboard will last for up to 24 months without changing the battery.
Shop here: https://www.fos.ie/logitech-mk270-wireless-desktop-920-004523--5
Storage Unit/Filing Cabinet
Note Mobile Pedestal with 3 Drawer 300mm
Bisley Note Pedestal Storage Unit. 3 Drawers - Heavy Duty. 300mm wide. Price: €134 (excl. VAT)
Shop here: https://www.fos.ie/note-mobile-pedestal-with-3-drawer-300mm
Facemask(s) - for when you need to leave the home office
Reusable Cloth Masks 5x7in 4 Layer Cotton Black/White (Pack of 5)
These cloth face masks are made from 4 layers of cotton, making them soft and comfortable to wear. Designed to help prevent the spread of viruses and microbes, these non-surgical protective masks measure 5 x 7 inches and are supplied in a pack of 5 in black. Price: €15.26 (excl. VAT)
Shop here (black): https://www.fos.ie/reusable-cloth-masks-5x7in-4-layer-cotton-black-pack-of-5-sy-200425b--2
Shop here (white): https://www.fos.ie/reusable-cloth-masks-5x7in-4-layer-cotton-white-pack-of-5-sy-200425w--2
