Category: advice
Did you start off 2019 with plenty of good intentions?
You probably meant to work smarter, be more focused and pro-active, set goals and so on. Here we are, one month in, and all that positive mindset is waning away in the harsh light of wintery mornings and traffic jams.
It’s difficult to be focused if your work environment is not inviting. It’s time to stand still, take a look around you and think, what can you do to make your office a nicer place to be?
Declutter your workspace
Let’s take a look at your desk first. You probably spend more time here than you do in your own living room – but you don’t have dirty cup rings on your coffee table, or pens, staples and paper clips littering the floor at home, do you?
Invest in some funky desk tidies and some bright coloured note pads. There’s a reason why so many people love stationery – it just helps you feel organised and inspired to achieve things. Introducing some order to your desk will make you feel more in control of your space.
Hygiene is important too
Whether your office is lucky enough to have a cleaner or not, there are still plenty of places they miss – including your keyboard and telephone. We don’t want to freak you out, but your keyboard can hold more germs than a toilet seat. Just think of all the crumbs you drop on there and the things your fingers hold and touch before you start tapping away, and you’ll have the wet wipes out in no time.
Give your telephone a wipe too, particularly on the mouthpiece; polish your computer screen and wipe over the desk. You’re already finding your work space a little more welcoming.
Work with a view
Now your desk is nice and tidy, take a look around the room itself. You might not have a huge amount of control over your environment, but we’re sure there are some simple things you can do to cheer the place up. If you’re looking at a wall, pop up some inspirational posters. Tidy your notice board, taking down the information about last year’s Christmas party.
Plants are a lovey way to brighten up your office space – and they have the benefit of adding more oxygen to the room, which improves your concentration. But if you are not green fingered, even some artificial plants can add colour.
Make space with archiving
Take a look at how the space in your office is used. Open plan offices tend to be a little tidier, as you need to keep pathways clear, but old computer parts, spare chairs and marketing banners still build up around the edges. That’s the sort of thing that can go into storage until you need it.
As for paperwork – well, that’s the bane of every modern office. It starts with one file tidied to the top of a cabinet, and before you know it that file has grown into a pile that leans like the Tower in Pisa. Stacks of paper multiply overnight in the corners and begin creeping their way off shelves and onto the floor.
Do you really need all that paperwork? In many cases you have to keep documents, particularly if your industry requires storing customer data for any length of time – but you don’t actually need it to hand. So, consider archiving options.
All you need is some nice strong boxes, some sort of numbering system, and a handy collection service with a strong back and a van, ready to transport it from your office to your very own indoor, prepared secure storage unit.
Make the most of your office space
Now that’s all out of the way, look at the wonderful space you have left. There’s enough room for a comfy sofa, or a new coffee machine. You could fit in a meeting space for clients – or how about a table football game for the team.
Don’t languish away in an unwelcoming office – we’re right here with our strong backs AND IN-HOUSE COLLECTION TEAM, ready to help you make your space work better for you.
Deciding to branch out on your own in business and becoming self-employed can be a daunting, but equally exciting experience.
There’s a few things you need to consider. Getting your finances in order, employing a good accountant, getting your marketing and branding correct – and finding the right base to work from.
If your business relies solely on a laptop, your front room or kitchen table may be adequate to get started. Hot desking is an option that has also become increasingly popular, and means you can keep your work life and home life completely separate.
However, when your business involves products, equipment or quantities of marketing materials, working from home might not be an option. When boxes and equipment start to fill your hallways, and you feel that you never find a place to switch off from work – then it’s time to consider business premises that don’t cost the earth.
Running your business from a storage unit is a really great alternative to separate offices. No business rates, no council tax and no overheads – just one simple monthly fee, and all the floor space you need to keep yourself organised.
Not sure it would work for you? Here’s just some of the businesses that can be run from a storage unit.
Handyman and fix-it professionals
If you have a business which involves fixing, mending and helping others with jobs around the house, the chances are you have a lot of heavy and bulky equipment, which could take up valuable space in your home – and can’t be left inside a van at night for risk of theft.
The safe and secure premises of a storage unit can be the perfect solution, and with long opening hours throughout the week, you can start your job at whatever time suits you during the day, knowing that you can pick things up and drop them off at your own convenience.
Selling online
If you have an eBay or Etsy store, a unit for your stock will free your home of boxes, especially if you buy in bulk to sell on for a small profit.
With simple shelving solutions you can keep stock in order, have an area for wrapping and posting, and you know your product will be kept dry and safe, whatever the weather is doing outside.
Look about for the right storage provider – some provide the shelving if asked, and can include wi-fi and lighting in your unit, making it easier to do everything in one place.
Furniture upcycling
Anyone who has converted furniture from shabby to chic will know that while the end results look flawless and effortless, the process in-between is anything but. Bulky items take a lot of work to transform, from filling and fixing, sanding and painting.
A storage unit is the perfect place to store larger items as you are transform them for sale, without getting in the way at home. Some storage providers can offer a choice of units with outside access as well – giving you ventilation for a workshop and easy access for deliveries.
Lawyers, accountants and medical professionals
You may not think that this kind of profession needs much in the way of storage, but all that paperwork soon piles up – and in many cases businesses are required to keep paper records for set amounts of time, long after they need daily access to it.
While keep boxes of files piled up in your home, or in your inner city office, where you pay inner city prices for every square foot. Storage units are far more cost effective, and great for archiving files that you just don’t need cluttering up the place.
Photography studio
A unit is a great way to get started as a photographer. You’ve got space to hang a white background, power for lighting and all the space you need for stock and product photography or model shoots.
If you are thinking of starting your own business or need a bit more space in your office, look around for the right storage provider. You’ll get indoors units, particularly helpful if you will be working from the unit in the winter, all the flexibility you need to expand as you grow, and a secure, PIN controlled place to call your own.
Thinking about starting your own business and need some storage advise? Call us on 0121 250 5055
Whether at work or at home, your environment is much more pleasant if it is clean and organised.
Whenever an office is disorganised or is in need of a good deep clean, there can be a negative impact on the business, as workers become unhappy and the company becomes a lot less streamlined and productive.
It’s a proven fact that working in a disorganised and cluttered space dampens creativity and productiveness, so anything you, as an employer, can do to limit this impact will pay dividends for your business.
Which is why, although a seemingly small part of your working week, selecting the right cleaner is vital. But before you pick, there are a few pointers to follow to make sure the company you select are the right ones for you – whether you’re considering hiring them to clean your work or your home.
Flexible and trained cleaners
Cleaning is more than throwing a duster and hoover around every week or so. Specialist cleaning firms will be able to discuss your cleaning requirements for your office space, and also are trained in the best products to use for each surface. They will treat your property with respect and care.
The right firm will advise you on which areas would need to be cleaned on a weekly, monthly or annual schedule, and create a plan, just as you would have with your own home, to make sure everything is hygienic and, importantly, health and safety compliant.
This could consist of making sure the high use areas such as the bathroom and kitchen are cleaned on a more regular basis, while others with lower use, or items like carpets and windows, are scheduled in less often.
Check their credentials and get referrals
You wouldn’t let just anyone into your home, just as you wouldn’t allow a stranger on the street to enter your office.
Most work environments have cleaners on site out of office hours, and in domestic properties the homeowner is often at work while the cleaner comes in. This means giving unsupervised access to the property – so you have to be certain that you hire a cleaner with good credentials.
It’s essential to choose a company that is insured and offers a guarantee that all employees are properly trained and thoroughly referenced, including checking for criminal records.
A reliable company will have other clients who should be more than happy to endorse them – so don’t be shy about asking about other customers you can speak with directly as referees, before you sign on the dotted line.
They should also have a clear process to ensure your satisfaction. Merry Maids, for example, ensure your premises are checked by a supervisor after the first clean and on a rotational basis for others. They also offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee where they will come back for a free clean if you are not happy with any aspect of their work.
You have the highest standards for your own work – so you want to make sure that the cleaning company you choose does too. If you’re after regular cleaning services, don’t be afraid to ask for a trial basis so you can see their cleaning for yourself.
One time cleaning services
You may not need regular cleaning services, but a professional clean can be just what you need. Consider if you are trying to sell your home – or are moving into your new place. A complete deep clean may just make that sale go faster, or help your new home feel fresh and welcoming.
If you’ve finished decorating or renovating, your home may be full of dust. Hiring a cleaner for a thorough cleanse – particularly if time is short – just makes life a little bit easier.
Special offers for Cookes customers
Hiring a cleaner for your home or business may seem like an expense you don’t need – but it doesn’t need to cost the earth. Choose a firm that has offers for block bookings.
Merry Maids is a family-run business based in office space on the Cookes Storage site in Minworth, close to Sutton Coldfield and Birmingham.
To celebrate the summer and their successful partnership, Merry Maids are offering Cookes customers any ‘one-off’ cleaning service for the discounted price of £70 per hour (inc. VAT). The offer includes two maids, all cleaning equipment and a Supervisor check of the completed clean. Alternatively, they are happy to provide a fixed, no-obligation quotation that will ensure that the clean is tailored to your specific requirements.
For more details, contact Merry Maids on 0121 313 1005.
As the weather hints at warmer days to come we see an increase in camping enthusiasts collecting their gear from storage.
It’s time to prepare for the season by checking through equipment, replacing anything that’s damaged and trying out the latest outdoor gadgets. As experienced campers will tell you, once you fall in love with holidaying under canvas, you’ll be adding to your camping must-haves every year.
However, if you’re new to camping it doesn’t have to cost a fortune in gear to get started. We’ve put together a few of the essentials for a weekend trip to get you snoozing under the stars in comfort.
The perfect tent
There are so many options on the market that choosing the perfect tent can feel overwhelming. You do need to research tent reviews online, speak to dealers and visit local camping shops to see some on display.
However, you don’t have to pick one straight away. If you can, borrow a tent first to get a feel for the features you like. Plus it’s a good way to be sure camping is right for you anyway. You’ll find that most regular campers have been through a number of tents before settling on a manufacturer and layout they prefer.
A good nights sleep
If you don’t get a good night’s sleep you will never enjoy camping to its fullest. You need to be comfortable and warm – there’s nothing worse than waking up cold or damp.
Remember that throughout the night temperatures fall and the ground gets cold. Insulating your bed from the floor helps keep you cosy. Place a picnic blanket under your bed, or use foam mats. Then, choose between an inflatable airbed, a camping bed or a SIM (self-inflating mattress).
Each type of bed has pros and cons. Airbeds can be very comfortable, but are prone to deflate. They can also be cold as the air inside cools, so you’ll need a blanket between your sleeping bag and the bed. Camping beds can be quick and easy to erect, but quite restrictive on space and quite firm, while a SIM can be comfortable, if you’re prepared to pay more for one thick enough to keep you from feeling the hard ground. Laying your SIM on top of a camping bed is a great alternative, but costs more in equipment.
The final ingredient to a good nights sleep is a thick sleeping bag, wide enough to allow movement, or if you prefer, a large, warm duvet. Take a couple of extra blankets in case you need them.
Something tasty to eat
All that fresh air helps you build up a healthy appetite so remember to take your cooker. A simple portable gas cooker is fine, and most come in their own carry case. Don’t forget the gas.
Then you’ll need cookware – a saucepan and frying pan, a kettle, plates, cutlery and a large mug for your morning cuppa. Unfortunately camping holidays do mean you have to do your own washing up, so a bowl, tea towel and washing up liquid.
As well as food – most camping trips involve a proper English breakfast – you need a cool box to keep your milk and bacon in.
Evening entertainment
One of the best things about camping is settling down by the campfire (if you are allowed one on site). A portable firepit is a lovely luxury – don’t forget the wood. Lightweight folding chairs and a table are perfect for an evening playing cards, and you’ll need a some powerful camping lanterns for light to play by.
Finally, make sure you pack some warm clothing, a change of shoes in case you get wet – well, we are talking camping in Britain – and your bathroom essentials.
And one more thing – don’t forget the bottle opener for the wine, to toast the success of your first trip.
Despite the month ending in storms, there are signs that spring is on the way. Snowdrops and daffodils are poking green shoots up through the snow and there are more birds about, ready to start building their nests.
After a long cold winter we’re all ready to get out and about – some fresh air, long walks and even cycling ahead. We know that there are some fabulous places to visit in the West Midlands, so we’ve asked you to share some of your favourite with us. Here’s what you recommended.
Park Lime Pits
When you live in the middle of a town, it can be hard to imagine beautiful countryside a mile or two away. Park Lime Pits is just that – a stunning nature reserve only 3 miles outside of Walsall, complete with tranquil pools, mature woodland and a diversity of wildflowers and birds. We’ve been told you can even see wild parakeets – make sure you take a camera.
Barr Beacon
If you feel like a good walk to stretch your legs, then set off to the top of Barr Beacon. One of the highest points of the West Midlands, you’ll find outstanding panoramic views of 11 counties.
One of the focal points is the War Memorial, lovely in the daylight and magical at night for the clear night sky views. In fact, it’s a popular place for stargazing and has been designated a Dark Sky Discovery Site.
Red House Park
The Red House is a listed building standing in 27 acres of parkland. While the house itself has been converted to apartments, the park remains open to the public. Two pools – or small lakes – and beautifully maintained gardens provide a lovely area for walking, while the woodlands, park and playing fields are the perfect place for children to blow off some winter steam.
Kingsbury Water Park
With 15 lakes to explore, you could send the whole day here cycling. There’s fishing, sailing, pedal boats – everything you would expect from a water park, in fact. Children will love the farm and donkey rides, as well as the usual play areas. Hop onto the Echills Wood Railway for a fun way to explore more of the park’s wooded areas.
Shustoke Reservoir
Shustoke Reservoir is a lovely place to hike or bike, and is certainly popular with nature lovers for the abundance of wildflowers. There’s an on site café if you need a hot chocolate in the crisp spring air – but we particularly liked that this recommendation came with the suggestion of stopping in at The Plough after your hike for a well-deserved pint.
Sutton Park
The most popular place you suggested by far was Sutton Park and it’s easy to see why. 2,400 acres of Nature Reserve, with heathland, woodlands, lakes, marshes, cattle and wild ponies sound amazing already, but on top of that there are playgrounds, restaurants and cafes, sailing and fishing, as well as plenty of room for walking and cycling.
Whether you’re walking your dog, exploring the woodlands, looking for group fun or peace and quiet, this really is a place for everyone. Make sure that when you visit, you stop by the donkey sanctuary.
The West Midlands has a multitude of nature reserves and countryside spots to visit. We’ve picked out the ones closest to home here near Sutton Coldfield and Minworth, but we’d love to hear more suggestions. If you’re planning to head out into the fresh spring air, tell us about your favourite place to visit.
Although we all use computers in business today, many industries still generate large amounts of paper records – much of which has to be kept for long periods of time.
Financial, legal, insurance and medical records, as well as tax records, architectural drawings and project information – whatever your industry, you probably have a lot of files that you need to store.
There’s no need to use your valuable office space, particularly if you’re paying premium city rates for every square foot. Self storage units offer you a cost-effective and secure place to keep your confidential and important documents.
When you start looking for a self storage unit, don’t assume all operators have the same offer. It’s worth looking about to see what you need.
Distance from your office
While your first thought might be to look for the closest storage unit to your office, in fact this may be the least important consideration.
Many industries need to store files for up to 10 years, but the paperwork is rarely needed during that time. Choosing a storage operator outside of the city limits will result in the benefit of lower costs that outweigh the distance to go for the occasional file.
External or internal units
Some storage units are external lock ups, while others are indoor units. If you do choose an external lock up, you’ll need to be aware of potential damage to your files from damp and rodents.
An indoor unit will mean that your paperwork stays dry and rodent free, so there’s no chance of mould or chewing to ruin essential files.
Security features
Another advantage of indoor units is that you are not only relying on your padlock to keep your data secure. Check that the operator you are considering offers CCTV both inside and outside of the facility. Some facilities, like Cookes, are manned throughout the day and have PIN code access, providing another layer of reassurance.
Room to grow
The great thing about self storage is that not only are the contracts flexible, so is the space. So, as your business grows and your records increase, you can easily expand the size of your unit.
Added extras
If you do need to access your records, you’ll want to be able to get hold of them easily. You can be sure that if you just pile boxes on top of each other, the files you need will be at the bottom of the heap.
Adding shelving to your unit will allow you to easily access individual files, and means boxes won’t get crushed and damaged. At Cookes, our archive units are prepared for you with pre-installed racking – giving you one less thing to do.
Record system
Make sure you clearly label each box before it goes off to storage. Whether you mark them by year, by project name or some other system, number each box and set up a simple record system on your computer. Then, if you do need to retrieve a file, you can easily identify the right box.
Collection services
Once your boxes are full, you’ll need to get them to your unit. Paperwork can be surprisingly heavy and inconvenient to move about.
We have a simple solution – our removals team will collect your boxes for you, and move them into your unit, secure and stored until you need them.
GDPR
With the deadline for GDPR compliance coming in May 2018, firms are reviewing their data storage right now. No matter where you store your confidential files, the onus is on your business to keep them safe. Make sure the storage firm you use has a clear understanding of GDPR, and how they can help you keep your files secure.
Cookes Archiving Solutions
At Cookes we have a ready make archiving solution for businesses, including pre-installed racking in your unit, a supply of extra strong archiving boxes, a padlock and marker pens, and an LED light to help you find your way. Once you’ve packed your boxes, our removal team will collect them for you and install them in your unit.