5 Ways to Welcome New Members of your Team

May 17th, 2013

 

After a lengthy recruitment and interview process, you’ve hired a qualified person you feel will make an excellent addition to your team. Now all that remains is to set the start date for their first day on the job. But, it’s important to make people feel welcome and create a positive experience with your company from Day 1.

It sounds simple: they’ll come in, you’ll show them their desk and they’ll get on with it, right? Unfortunately any of us who have started a new job know that there is a certain level of anxiety when starting a new position and of course meeting new people. Those first few weeks are a period of learning and adjustment to your company even for someone who is an expert in their field.

Make Time for an Orientation

Your new hire’s first day on the job is just another step for you in the process of acquiring their talents for your office. Schedule the time in your diary to get them settled and comfortable in their new position.

Introductions

Make sure to introduce your new team member to each and every person they might come across in the office. This will help avoid any awkward situations, and show them who does what and where they can be found.

Get Them Involved

Start involving your new hire in decisions as soon as possible, even if it’s just to decide which office supplies to order or where you’ll be holding the office lunch at the end of the week. This will encourage them to become part of the team.

Have Someone Look After Them

Of course your new staff member is not a child, but it can be nice to have one specific person to turn to for anything and everything. If you’ve got a dynamic person on your team who is great with people and knows all about the inner workings of the firm, put them in charge of your newbie.

Kit out Their Space

Everyone has their favourite office supplies and equipment to help get the job done. This is where Office Allsorts comes in! Place an order for all of the things your newbie prefers, and they’ll be ready to become a productive member of your team.  Click here to see some of our best selling items.

The Little Extras: Office Bins and More

May 10th, 2013

So the idea has taken seed in your mind, and you’ve made the decision to start your own business. This of course comes with a world of decisions to make. From finding the appropriate space and location for your office to deciding who it is you’ll hire, you’ll have a range of aspects to consider.

When first starting out, it’s important to cover all the basics first. This includes naming your company, obtaining a business licence, and kitting out your space with the essentials.

Having what you need to perform simple tasks and conduct the transactions that will bring in revenue is important, but there are also certain little extras you won’t want to forget.

Office BOffice Binsins

So, you’re unpacking all that shiny new equipment and realise you have no place to toss the plastic and Styrofoam it came in. Or, your first office lunch was a success, but where will you throw your paper cups? Don’t get caught without proper disposal facilities. Be sure to put office bins on your list of must-have supplies.

 

Cleaning Supplies

In a perfect world, tidying up around the office would be simple. However, you’ll need to have everything necessary to keep your equipment dust-free and give your bathroom a thorough cleansing. If your office has a kitchen, you’ll also want to have dish soap and sponges readily available.
Chairs for Visitors

Having an attractive, well-functioning office is great, but if you don’t have a place for visitors to sit you may find yourself in trouble. When purchasing your furniture be sure to plan for chairs near the entrance and in each office space.
If you’ve already checked office bins, cleaning items and extra chairs off your list and are still worried you may be forgetting something, give us a call here at Office Allsorts. Our experts will be happy to make appropriate suggestions for your needs.

Ring Binders for Everyday Use

May 3rd, 2013

Certain things never seem to go out of style. From classic apparel like blue jeans and old recipes that still taste lovely each and every time, there are some things in life that need no updating or improvements to keep them useful.

In a business or office situation we often see old favourites still in use years after they first began to be produced.

Items like ballpoint pens will still be found in almost any company. No matter how advanced technology may become, people will still need to jot things down quickly from time to time. Even businesses that operate only on the internet still provide standard notebooks and pens to employees for convenience.

Ring Binders

Another oldie but goody is your traditional ring binder. Here at Office Allsorts we still receive regular requests for these useful pieces of filing equipment. Businesses requiring document storage of papers ranging from invoices to client correspondence use ring binders both in the office and at off-site storage facilities. They are also often used on the go, by companies that need to provide estimates or receipts at mobile locations.

While the ring binders of old haven’t been modified to a large extent, they do currently feature certain elements that make them even easier to use. Components like plastic pockets eliminate the need to punch a hole in every document, and elastic closing systems can now better protect your papers.

Many ring binders from Office Allsorts are sold in packs of three, five or ten, making it easy to equip your office with a matching set and set the foundation for an organised filing system.

You can also choose from a range of materials, depending on the desired durability of your binder. Some filing jobs require a very basic model made of paper covered board, while others will be best protected in a full polypropylene cover.

Click here to see all of our ring binders, and for any queries don’t hesitate to contact our friendly experts.

Waste Bins to Suit Every Office

March 20th, 2013

Waste bins are items that receive little thought in the planning of an office or new business. With things like payroll, rental expenses, desks, chairs and computer equipment to consider, the humble waste bin may come in last in terms of priority.

However, every space needs a proper place to dispose of rubbish; from simple minimalist offices to gorgeous executive suites. Whether your office is the former or the latter, you’ll need office bins that serve their purpose and last you for years to come.

At Office Allsorts we have waste bins to suit every style and budget. We also have recycling bins to ensure your business is as environmentally friendly as possible.

Some of our most popular bins are those that fit discretely under desks. The Avery DR500 is a great example. This bin features a flat back to reduce the area it requires, and its rim helps secure liners and keeps them in place.

Another bin with a flat side is our attractive Semicircular Metal Bin with decorative perforated trim. A high-end option to complement any sophisticated office, this bin is also very durable, with scratch resistant coating.

Mesh bins such as the Osco Mesh Office Waste bin in silver or black are a versatile option for many businesses. They are sturdy, corrosion and scratch resistant, and great for simple paper waste. They also feature large capacity, meaning they won’t need to be emptied as often.

One of Office Allsorts’ best budget bins is the 5 Star Office Bin in your choice of grey or cobalt blue. Made of polypropylene, this bin is durable yet lightweight; perfect for every room in your office. They also have tapered walls to give them a more interesting shape.

For the best and largest variety of office waste bins, be sure to visit Office Allsorts.

Buying your Stationery Supplies Online

February 27th, 2013

Having your own business is a challenge. From balancing the books to bringing in new business, entrepreneurs have a wealth of tasks to complete on any given day. Your time is best spent on items that fall within your expertise, and allow you to follow your passion and make your work profitable.

Having a well-stocked office means you’ll have all the supplies necessary to allow you to devote your precious working hours to what your business does best. Buying stationery supplies online is just one small way to make running your office easier.

Save Time

Time is money in any industry, so you’ll want to waste as little as possible. Visiting Office Allsorts’ convenient website allows you to shop for stationery supplies online with the click of a mouse. This eliminates the need to take time out of your busy day to visit an office store, search up and down the aisles for every item on your list and transport it all back to the office.

With free next day delivery on orders over £40, you won’t have to wait days or even weeks for your stationery supplies to arrive.

Stationery Supplies Online

Great Service

At times in a large store it can be difficult to find the items you’re looking for. Faced with shelf after shelf of products, you’ll have to carefully read each label to make the correct purchase. Returns are a further hassle, as they’ll require an additional trip and more time spent.

With Office Allsorts, you can easily type in the name of each product you need, or browse through our neatly organised categories. We offer a Low Price Guarantee and Free No Quibble Returns Policy, so you can shop with confidence.
Our experts are also standing by for any queries on the stationery supplies you see online

An A4 personal organiser: Still in style

February 19th, 2013

Remember the days when you actually wrote things down on paper in order to reference them later? In today’s gadget-crazed world it seems like pens and paper have permanently gone out of style.

Emails have replaced letters to colleagues, family and friends, and applications on tablets and other devices seem to be used for anything and everything. Even your mobile phone can now easily hold a shopping list, record voice memos and offer reminders for your appointments.

A4 Personal Organiser

However, technology isn’t always the best or only answer. You can’t normally just switch on your computer to take notes during a call, and at times it’s hard to correctly keep track of your diary using just your phone.

Some items simply must be manually written down, and for this you’ll need a personal and professional organiser. The great thing about them is that they are easy to access and can be used for work and other obligations.

Filofax organisers actually have a long history in the UK. Their name was born of the phrase ‘file of facts’ and dates back to the beginning of their production in 1921. These handy organisers really grew popular in the 1980s, but they are still widely used today.

Having so many uses and add-ons makes them a great choice for people ranging from professional executives to busy parents. In addition to calendars they can be equipped with alphabetic tabs, maps, calculators, zip pockets, credit card holders and more.

This means you can use your A4 personal organiser as a wallet, address book, and diary. They can be purchased in your choice of colours and styles, and neatly closed to contain all of your important information.

Keep one on your desk for easy reference, and take it with you on the go. Office Allsorts has a wide range of organisers for all of your personal and professional needs.

Put your Flipchart to Work: Employee Training

February 18th, 2013

As a business owner, you want the best for your company. Success comes from discovering new opportunities, making new and important alliances within your industry, reaching new goals and ultimately winning new clients who will pay for your products and services.

Your employees are essentially your tools for making your business succeed, so naturally you’ll want to have the strongest and most powerful tools to get the job done.

Flipchart and Accessories

How does an employer hone the skills of existing employees to encourage them to produce maximum results? By training and developing them to the best of your ability.

This may mean providing continuous education in your field by sending them to conferences and seminars. However, learning can also take place in a simple meeting room with an excellent flipchart. Even if you don’t consider yourself a teacher or one who is skilled in sharing information you likely have valuable knowledge and experience to share with your subordinates.

Whether you see a gap in knowledge, have identified a certain shortcoming, or just want to offer a general update on business and best practices, schedule a session dedicated to employee learning.

Setting aside a specific time will allow you to organise your thoughts and form a lesson plan. You don’t have to adhere to a strict bulleted list on your flipchart; just have some general topics to cover and allow the session to take its course.

Employees will appreciate your time and dedication to their success as well as that of the company. Just be sure to keep the tone positive. Do not include any sort of reprimands, fear tactics or outright complaints during your training.

You can also invite expert colleagues or partners to give informative sessions with your flipchart as well.
For flipcharts and other presentational materials, count on Office Allsorts.

Three Tips for a good Employer-Employee Relationship

January 8th, 2013

Everyone wants to have a great relationship with their employees. Happy employees are more productive and pleased to take on new and challenging tasks. Plus, getting on well with those around you makes going to the office day after day more enjoyable.

But, as many business-owners can tell you, finding the balance between being a respected authority and a good friend can be hard to do. If you’re too rigid and demanding, employees complain that you expect too much or are unapproachable. If you’re too friendly and easy-going, you may have employees trying to take advantage of your kindness.
It’s important to maintain your status as the leader while allowing for flexibility and understanding of your employees’ needs.

Office Supplies

Start off with Clear Expectations

One of the marks of a great employer is fairness. Employees who are provided with straightforward expectations right from the beginning will never be able to claim they were unaware of a rule or standard to follow. Even in a small office setting you can hold a brief orientation session with a flip chart and easel to clearly outline your office standards and describe any consequences for failure to abide by them.

Stay in Touch

Communication with employees is essential for any business to survive. This goes beyond exchanging emails- your employees need to know they can reach you and discuss important issues at any time. Try having an open-door policy for employees to come to you if necessary. Hold frequent informal meetings and use your flip chart and easel to explain any new procedures and record employee feedback.

Be Understanding

You do need to adhere to your established standards and consistently apply them. However, there will be circumstances beyond your control and times when it’s necessary to be flexible and understanding of employee needs. This may mean allowing employees time off to attend to family matters, being conscious of the amount of work you assign, or allowing for flexible working hours in certain instances.

For flip charts and easels and other supplies to facilitate a great relationship with employees, shop at Office Allsorts.

How to Boost New Business Cash Flow

December 19th, 2012

A problem with cash flow is one of the main reasons that businesses fail. Even if you have work coming in and are generating profit, not keeping a handle on the business expenditure can quickly spell disaster, even for the best business ideas.

Of course, there are certain essential expenditures that all businesses need to factor into their cash flow projections. Office supplies are one of these expenditures – however, it is possible to minimise the impact that stocking up on the basics has on your business cash flow.

Discount Office Products

Buy Discounted Office Products

When shopping for personal items you’re likely to shop around for the best possible price. It’s important to also apply this bargain hunting mentality to shopping for your business supplies. You can find all that you need for your business, from stationery to furniture, at Office Allsorts, the online superstore for discount office products. With prices discounted up to 90 per cent, you’re sure to find the best possible buys. Office Allsorts will even deliver them directly to your office and also offer a free no quibble returns policy for ultimate peace of mind.

Choose 5 Star Products

Slash that stationery bill even further by forgoing the branded favourites and going for  ‘no frill’ discount office products. The 5 Star range at Office Allsorts may not have fancy packaging, but it offers quality products without the price premium that a well know brand will command.

It’s easy to shop for 5 Star discount office products at Office Allsorts using the dedicated search facility.

Apply for Credit

If you really need to control that cash flow then you can apply for a business credit account at Office Allsorts. This buy now, pay later solution means that you can have all that you need to get your business off the ground, and pay for it over time, as a manageable outgoing.

Keep your cash flow under control and you’re already on your way to making your business a success. Office Allsorts makes it easy to stock an office without breaking the bank, and time spent browsing the website is time productively spent.

Buying Office Equipment in Nottingham

November 29th, 2012

Budget is a key consideration for all businesses, and ways to save range from reducing energy usage to hiring the minimal amount of staff possible to get the job done.

Corners can be cut in all areas, and you may have already considered the benefits of purchasing low cost office supplies and equipment. But did you know that buying office equipment locally has more advantages than just reducing costs?
Even larger office equipment items can be acquired right here in Nottingham.

Local suppliers such as Office Allsorts tend to offer better customer service than national retailers. We know that local establishments are competing for your business, which is why we hire employees that not only have a better understanding of our products but will work hard toward getting to know your business needs better.

Nottingham Office Equipment

When large retailers move into smaller areas and shut down smaller businesses, it can lead to more jobs lost than the large chain can provide. Employing local individuals contributes to job retention and growth. This has multiple positive economic and social benefits.

The revenue generated from your Nottingham office equipment purchases also recirculates within our community at a much higher rate than money spent at chain stores.

Delivery charges to Nottingham are less than from more distant areas, and you’ll cut down on pollution to the environment by reducing fuel emissions.

Office Allsorts has a wide range of office equipment in Nottingham and supplies needed for any business, so when shopping locally you won’t have to compromise on inferior quality or selection.
Our professional and efficient website allows you to search for any specific item you require. Browse through our selection of office supplies and technology, and be sure to check out our current offers.