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4 Home Office Ideas

Working remotely is all about getting into "the zone." The time has come to ban spreadsheets at the kitchen table and laptops on the couch.

Ready to boost your productivity? Get to work with some of these tips and tricks inspired by Costco.com.

1. Define a proper work zone

Draw the line between work and leisure by establishing a concentration station. No need for an entire room - claim a corner, a repurposed hall closet or any other "dead" space.

Pro-Tip: Fasten large binder clips to the back of your desk (with metal handles facing out) to organize and maintain the wires for your electronics.

2. Be separate, together

For a shared desk area, space out two or three short filing cabinets, creating a base. Run a long piece of wood across the top - it should extend beyond the cabinets on either end. Three filing cabinets will yield four separate work stations.

Pro-Tip: Have the kids personalize their work area. Working side by side, they're in a better position to ask questions, share ideas and help one another learn.

3. Think outside the office

Use a spice rack to house rubber bands, paper clips and any other loose items, and fill a favorite mug with pens. A plastic dish rack doubles as a kid-friendly slotted organizer.

Pro-Tip: Save filing space by hanging clipboards on the wall to hold extra paper, worksheets, to-do lists or bills.

4. Anticipate the video chat

Video calls are standard practice these days, so be prepared. Bluetooth speakers keep the call hands-free while headphones, complete with a speaker, offer privacy.

Pro-Tip: Don't neglect the background - what your caller sees is important. Hang a bulletin board behind you, pinning colorful prints, business-appropriate photos or notes.