How to Spring Clean Your Desk the Stratus Way

Well, it's about that time again.  The weather is warming, flowers are starting to bloom and the breeze is blowing up all the loose dust around your office (fingers crossed you have a window like mine)!  Work should be a productive place to be; you need a motivating environment, and mess, clutter, unorganization and dust are not that.

At least once a year, it's time to take down all the posted comics and piles of paper collecting dust (and hiding secrets) and give yourself the satisfaction of a deep Stratus Spring Clean.

1. Start by organizing your files - have you considered a cloud-based or electronic filing system?  Then, you can access work anywhere!
2. Damp wipe down everything with an All Purpose Cleaner.  Spray on and let it sit for a minute to really let the chemicals do their job.
3. Get a bulletin board for all your little pieces of paper and notes.  If you can't give up your Post-It habit (guilty here), at least organize the little guys.
4. Get a notebook.  This can hold all your ideas, favorite websites, random lists, anything you need it to.  Give the Post-It pad a break and home to your work epiphanies.
5. Clean out your keyboard with some sprayable air.  If needed, you can always pop off the keys for a good cleaning.
6. File your business cards.  Or consider connecting on LinkedIn... no business cards necessary.
7. Back up your files.  This isn't exactly a cleaning tast... but you'll thank me later.

Now it's your turn - post a picture of your new, super-clean office on our Facebook page.  Happy cleaning!

The Top Ten Ways You Can STILL Stay Healthy This Season

One of the unique things about the professional cleaning industry is that it is made up of thousands of sole proprietors, many with few (if any) workers. However, there is a significant operational issue with owning such a small company; if the sole proprietor gets sick, which is a bigger risk during these winter and spring months, it can cause havoc, economic pain, and even result in the loss of an account. Here are the top ten ways you can stay healthy this season:

1.       Eat well. Eat three well-balanced meals each day and try to avoid fast food.

2.       Wash your hands. Wash your hands frequently while working, after removing gloves, using cleaning equipment, tools, and/or chemicals.

3.       Use PPE. Wear gloves, goggles, and other protective clothing when working.

4.       Avoid inhaling chemical fumes. If mixing chemicals, do so in a well-ventilated area.

5.       Get plenty of sleep. Try to make your hours consistent; getting home and to bed at about the same time each evening improves sleep.

6.       Take a multivitamin. Some people believe in vitamins, and some don’t. But if taken as directed, vitamins may be able to keep you healthier.

7.       Get a flu shot.

   8.       Have a weekend. To keep the body strong and healthy, it is important to have a day or two off each week.

   9.       Drink lots of fluids. Drink plenty of water and juice while at work. If you think you are getting sick, drink even more. Some studies indicate drinking extra fluids at the first signs of illness can help it pass through your system faster.

   10.    Use ergonomic equipment. Select more advanced cleaning equipment, which is designed to make your job easier and help keep you healthy.

Finally, lighten up and stay happy! Studies indicate that people who have a positive, happy attitude towards life often have a stronger immune system!

Guest blog by Chelsea Pulley