Office Management

If you're a veteran at office management, you already know the ins and outs and the unusual requests you'll receive. If you're new to the game, you've got a lot to learn!

While it's true you're more than likely the person who will need to be certain to order the pens, paper and even pay the electric bill, you'll soon find out "office manager" means you're in charge of everything that has to do with the office itself.

This can range from getting the copier fixed to making sure employees have everything they need to get their jobs done. It also can translate to you being responsible for employee safety as well.

When it comes to dealing with the office furniture, that means it will fall on you to ensure it's in decent repair and also to pay heed to any complaints and/or requests employees make in regard to it. There are even some federal laws to consider when it comes to office furniture and other equipment.

Employees are within their rights to request reasonable accommodations for disabilities. This means you as an office manager might be required to order specialized chairs, desks, cabinets and so on so employees can get their jobs done. Be aware of what's "reasonable" and be certain to act on the requests.

For all other issues, it will fall on you to replace or repair what's broken, make sure reasonable requests are met and to do it all within the confines of a budget.

Office furniture - especially the chairs for desk workers - can make or break an office. If employees who sit a good portion of the day aren't sitting correctly, it can cost your company in days lost. If desks aren't at correct heights for those who type, or chairs aren't, there might be carpal tunnel claims or other issues that arise.

While some of these duties may fall on others technically, as the office manager you're likely to be the first to hear of any complaints. Take them seriously and act on those you can and pass along those you can't handle. The attention you pay to the little details can save your company money in the long run.