TIPS FOR ORGANIZING YOUR FILES
Create a filing system with broad
CATEGORIES
("insurance") divided into subcategories ("auto," "life") and alphabetized within each category.
Begin file folder headings with a
NOUN
rather than a verb or adjective -- "clients: current" instead of "current clients."
Creating a file
INDEX
-- listing the location of each category and folder -- will make it easier to find documents when you need them.
FINGERTIP
files are those that you refer to all the time -- phone lists, school directories, catalogs -- and should be kept at your desk.
If you have limited space, consider allowing a document storage company to store your old records in an
OFF-SITE
facility.
Clip multiple-page documents together with
STAPLES
or a binder clip -- but avoid paper clips because they get caught on other pages.
Mark the
DISCARD
date on items that will become outdated before you file them away -- then clean out expired files at least once a year.
Print
DRAFTS
of reports and other documents in colored paper and the final copy in white, to avoid any confusion.
