10 Home Office Essentials for the Ideal Workspace

I’ve been working from home since 2011, with multiple work spaces, and after trying and testing different rooms, desks, chairs, office spaces, and speakers, I’ve found my favorites. But don’t take my word for it. I talked to fellow remote Salesforce employees about their set up as well.

Now, with more and more people working remotely right now, here is a list of the best-of-the-best essentials for that perfect work-from-home spot.

Natural light to keep you feeling sunny

If I asked you whether you’d like to work in a beautiful park or be in a dark room all day, which would you pick?

Well, according to Future Workplace’s survey, over 1,600 employees ranked “access to natural light and views of the outdoors” as their number one desire for a workplace environment. This makes sense because natural light has many health benefits, such as vitamin D, boosting your mood, and better sleep.

Set up your workspace in a room with windows, work outside during your lunch break, and take a break from staring at your screen to gaze out the window. If you don’t have windows, or you just have a small window, add mirrors, or check out light therapy. No matter what, there should be ways to enjoy the good ‘ol sun everyday.

An external monitor to make Salesforce dashboards as big as they can be

I love my sticker-filled 13” laptop, but when I’m home, I plug into a higher quality display.

This makes your work experience much clearer. For even better viewing experience, consider making the external monitor your primary view while the system is connected. I recommend the HP Envy.

Bill Frazier, Principal Solutions Engineer at Salesforce, uses two 27" Apple Thunderbolt displays monitors. “Two separated monitors give me so much more control and flexibility,” says Bill.

A professional-yet-very-you backdrop to impress that webcam green light

I interviewed Paul Wilhoit, Director for Service Cloud at Salesforce, about your personal brand and showing up remotely. Paul recommends a company-branded backdrop if you need to spruce up your space. If you’re not looking to spend money, put some of your trophies, company swag or event badges behind you for a personalized and professional space.

A headset to hear all the things

Besides being able to hear in meetings, it’s not a fun experience to get cut off, or to cut someone else off. A headset can keep the meeting etiquette on point. You can use a wired headset that comes with many cell phones, or check out this Jabra speakerphone. Whether you’re using a cell phone or computer, a headset or strong speakerphone is a must.

A desk flexible to your needs, whether you’re sitting and standing

According to MayoClinic, too much sitting overall and prolonged periods of sitting seem to increase the risk of death from cardiovascular disease and cancer. Yikes. We all know that standing up and moving around is important, and a standing desk can help. I start my day standing, and I also try to stand for most meetings.

This keeps sitting to a minimum.

If you’re looking for a good standing desk, this standing desk was recommended to me, and is my favorite for the past four years. Not only is it electric (no need to manually lift the desk up and down), but it has memory settings, USB chargers on the side, and a glass top for note-taking with dry erase markers.

A comfortable chair that keeps your back in line

Let’s go back to sitting for a moment, because sometimes, we simply need to sit and work. While there are many types of wallet-busting office chairs, it’s worth it to invest in one that fits your bum and budget. If you can, go to stores and showrooms in your area and sit down, lean back, lean forward, pull levers and ask questions about everything. Your back, muscles, various joints and brain will thank you.

A tiny desk speaker that packs a loud punch

Jam out to your favorite tunes while you work, or dial into a conference call, because a great speaker will boost your work mood and help you get things done. Bluetooth speakers have gotten a lot smaller in terms of price and size. I recommend the Sonos 1 for the strong sound quality. If you are tight on desk space, there are plenty of super small, wireless, bluetooth speakers that pack a big punch, while taking up as much room as a coaster.

Wave that Ranger flag! Add decor that inspires you to keep going

I know you’re an amazing person with wonderful achievements, so use your wall space within eye view to display those certificates and diplomas. Encapsulate your monitor with surfboard anniversary trophies.

Doing this will remind you of how amazing you are, and what you’ve achieved, inspiring you even when you have a case of the Mondays.

If you don’t have awards or certificates, or you want something else to inspire you, consider some motivational quotes and signs, your child’s artwork, or a picture of your favorite place. I personally like to mix both awards and motivational signage, adding some personal touches while still feeling #inspired.

The fastest, most powerful Internet on the block

You’re on VPN, a Google Meet with 15 people, and everyone is on webcam. Later on, it’s 4:30pm, and though your workday is still going, your kids are taking an after-school break with the PS4. Slow Internet is rough, so consider installing a high-powered router like D-Link’s top-rated Ultra Wi-Fi Router.

Speaking of webcam, get a strong camera so you’re clear as day

In terms of technology, ensure you’re using a decent webcam. Paul Wilholt says, “It’s about being clearly visible on camera from the moment you join the meeting.” If your computer webcam is subpar, consider purchasing a webcam that does a really good job such as the Logitech HD Pro Webcam C920.

What other home-office essentials do you live (and work) by?