What Does Your Desk Say About You?

Or why you’ve missed out on that promotion …

 

Does your desk look like this?

ARE you the kind of person who thinks a messy desk makes you look busy and important?

Have you been overlooked for promotion or that pay rise again? It could be more to do with what is on your desk than what you do at your desk.

A study by a top recruitment agency claims that desks could reveal the true personality, habits and ambitions of you, their owners.

Hundreds of office worker’s desks were studied by a leading behavioural psychologist who looked at the layout and patterns of possessions on the desks. From that, she said she could discern six main types of personality.

“What is not on the desk can be just as telling as what is, so it is important to think whether your desk really expresses what you want it to, as it can give away a great deal,” she said.

So what is your desk saying about you?

The Super-Organised Desk – Is this You?

This functional and neat workspace, with no mess, frills or personal belongings is most likely to belong to a super-efficient worker. A notepad, pen and essential office equipment are the only things on view, leaving little room for clutter. The desk gives out an aura of quiet power which can be intimidating, but beware – it may also disguise a chip on its owner’s shoulder – due to lack of appreciation. This person is subject to mood swings, wants to feel needed but is charming and helpful when relied upon.

The Organised Chaos Desk – Is this You?

This personality would love really to be tidy but doesn’t quite make it! They will panic if everything is not to hand, and have a “filing system” of piles and piles of paper, overflowing onto the floor, across the carpet and under the desk. This person wallpapers the space with yellow sticky reminders but loses them in the chaos. To cope with the stress and worry this person needs frequent cups of coffee or cigarettes to keep cool. Although a workaholic and prone to occasional bouts of angst and hysteria, this person likes a good chat to break up the humdrum of work, is adaptable and flexible and brilliant for coming up with great ideas.

The Creative Chaos Desk – Is this You?

This desk is likely to be filled with a collection of clutter revealing many different interests and an alert and creative mind. Modern technology does not feature strongly. Though often distracted, this personality is a great lateral thinker and a good source of ideas. They need to have things at hand, but only vaguely know where everything is, and work is often misplaced. Always on the go but work is the key driving force.

The Personality Extension Desk – Is this You?

This desk is covered in personal touches, from posters of Johnny Depp (or Eva Mendes), postcards and holiday snaps to cuddly stuffed animals, plants and zany mouse-mats. Surrounding walls will also be covered in memorabilia and pictures of favourite celebrities. People this category may even keep makeup and toiletries on their desk, such as hand cream or vitamins. These personalities are always on the go, and need constant refreshment, so top up food and drink is often to hand. They also need constant entertainment, and although friendly and talkative, are not always discreet.

The Trophy Desk – Is this You?

The workspace is messy and covered in items which reflect a part of the owner’s social, professional or financial successes. It may appear haphazard, but each “trophy” is strategically and deliberately placed for maximum effect. Items range from postcards and pictures of expensive holidays, to sporting or professional awards. Desktop accessories will be bold and brightly coloured. These people are natural team leaders – they think big – but need to be appreciated or they are prone to discontent, tantrums and bouts of sulking.

The Show Desk – Is this You?

This desk projects a manufactured and false image of either its owner or the company they represent. It is large and sparsely furnished with no personal effects, giving the impression of space and control. This individual is likely to have a double sided personality, but few at work will know the real person behind the facade. Although friendly within their own social group, once behind the desk, they adopt a steely, professional mask. Hmm, scarey!
Don’t forget that being professional does not mean leaving your personality at home entirely. A few personal effects can be motivating and show that you enjoy coming to work.

Are BOYS OR GIRLS MESSIEST?
Surprisingly it’s about 50/50 – they’re pretty similar.

For a more organised desk check out the latest Samson Office Supplies Directory or visit Samson Desk Tidies etc.