It’s a dog eat dog world when it comes to putting together a decent set of computer and office gear at work. Most equipment is handed down from one employee to the next. When one employee leaves there’s always a vulture or two swooping in to grab the new flat panel or faster computer. I once used 3 phone books to prop up my monitor until I was able to snag a real monitor stand. It’s Darwinism at work: Only the strong survive.
Over the years, I’ve learned diplomacy also has its advantages. One of the first things I did when I started my latest job I was to find someone in inventory who had access to the good speakers. I didn’t want the crappy sounding desktop cheapos. I wanted a nice set with subwoofer. I was able to round up a decent set of Harmon Kardons. I then went to work securing a decent flat panel monitor so I would have two monitors including my laptop screen. I learned that it pays to be VERY KIND to the person with key to inventory
I was also able to find a decent HP LaserJet printer, bookcase, white board and two padded chairs. I bought my own red, “Office Space” approved stapler which is a must have item in the office. I finally got around to paying Fred Meyer a visit to find some fake flowers and a basket full of grass to give my office a little color.
I hung a few pictures of the kids and placed several frames around the office. Kim will tell you that I’m a minimalist when it comes to decor and that’s a good way to describe my office. It’s not fancy by any means, but it works. I even have the requisite Krusty the Clown action figure on my bookcase. Sorry, no Star Wars or Star Trek LEGO space ships though.
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