In these days of cell phones powerful enough to launch the space shuttle, video games that read your mind, and Pedi-Paws, technology is enabling us to do almost anything…and throw in wi-fi…anywhere.
As a self-employed consultant, my office is where ever I can “get a signal.” This used to mean just Panera, but now that ‘everybody’s’ got free wi-fi or my wireless card, my office could easily be Waffle-house or the front seat of my car. No matter where I am conducting business, I can’t get along without the following 10 Essentials for my Mobile Office:
*(I am assuming you already have a lap top and all the associated wires, plugs and USB ports , so that doesn’t even need to be listed…)*
1. Smart phone.
I use the Blackberry Pearl. Might migrate to the Curve, but I’m not a big fan of the Storm. Of course I am sure that the iPhone-ers will let me know how I’m missing out.
2. An Extension Chord.
This is very handy when “those people” must not be aware that they are in “my booth.” Once I was asked, “Do you mind granting me an electrical easement?” when a person want to plug in close to where I was sitting. I liked that way of saying it…creative, funny, and a bit nerdy (I can appreciate that). I use the cheap ones that my wife always steals when it’s time to string up the Christmas lights.
3. Wireless Mouse.
If you’re going to look “mobile” then you don’t want to be tethered by an antiquated mouse. I use the Logitech Mice…or mouses.
4. Digital Fax.
When you’re on the go, you don’t need to be tied down by the location of your fax machine. I use Fax Thru E-mail.
5. USB Memory Stick.
No explanation needed here. A nice added touch is to have some made up with your logo or business contact info.
Most word processing software has this capability these days, but just in case you were wondering. This is essential for creating documents and faxing from any location (see #4). I use Adobe products.
7. A nice looking, high quality laptop case
You really can’t be taken serious as a mobile office worker when you are using your backcountry backpack to tote your essentials around…unless you are in the backpack business…then it’s a pretty good idea. I use the Targus Blacktop 17” Deluxe Laptop Case with Dome Protection.
8. MP3 Player with stylish headphones
Sometimes you just have to disengage from your surroundings and drown out the expresso machines and the annoyingly loud folks. I use the Creative Zen V.
9. Cold Hard Cash
You really should tip those folks who are asking you if you want a refill every 10 minutes since you are taking up the their table all morning or afternoon. And loose change comes in handy when you have to feed the meter all day.
10. A Good Book
When you are between client calls, checking e-mails, and after the 10th cup of java…sometimes it just good to unplug and read something in an actual book…you know those things with paper pages. They’ll make you smarter.
So there you go. Those are my 10 Essentials for a mobile Office. They can be found on, in, or around me on any given day at any given time. What are yours?
