4 types of workstations (and what they say about you)

Our workstations are like mini extensions of our homes. We spend a considerable amount of time here, and the way we keep our desks can say a lot about who we are. Based on collective opinion and my own observations, I have categorised desk styles into four key types:

The organised chaos

Some people’s desks look like someone fired bullets all over the place. Yet, if you ask them for something, they can effortlessly dig it out of the mess and hand it to you. Individuals with these desks belong to the creative, ‘scatter-head’ variety. They are typically lost in their own world and don’t care much about what others think of them. Being organised or structured stifles their creativity and may even impact their productivity. Despite the mess, there is still a method to their madness.

The (almost) vacant

This type of workstation makes you wonder if someone even occupies it! Almost always empty, it is usually inhabited by individuals who guard their work very closely. Such individuals are typically secretive or introverted and maintain a clear divide between their work life and personal life. So don’t expect to see any personal mementos on their desk.

The decorated desk

This desk contains pin boards, office group pictures, pictures of family and friends, stickers, posters and a host of other things. These desks typically belong to friendly and approachable individuals who may or may not be very outgoing. They love to feel at home wherever they are and make sure they lighten up their work environment to feel that way. They participate in group activities and enjoy mixing entertainment with work. For them, the office environment has to be interesting. They don’t wait for someone else to make it fun; they do it themselves.

The perfectly organised

Individuals with this desk know where their items are to the millimetre. So if you picked up a pen from their desk, they’ll know immediately. Nothing in this desk is ever out of order. Owners of these desks love structure, process and protocol. They probably hate to break any routine and can follow them relentlessly without any fear of monotony.

It’s not just the clothes we wear or the way we talk at work that speaks about our personality. So take charge, because it is up to you to decide what you want your desk to tell others about you.