The decision to open your first office can be one of the most complex and unfamiliar decisions that you’ll ever make. But it’s also one of the most exciting decisions.  Besides figuring out where your office will be located, you also need to think about office supplies and other essentials to keep your business operations running as smoothly as possible.

So what are those basic office supplies that you’ll need?  Here are five essential supplies you’ll need when opening your first office:

Desk supplies

These are some of the most basic things you’ll need for your office.  Things like pens, tape, highlighters, paper clips, scissors and a stapler. are all essential when opening your first office.  We take them for granted, but we need them to get the job done. They’ll help you take notes, be creative and go about your normal daily business.

Paper

When opening a new office, you’ll need plenty of paper to write and print on.  Stock up on supplies like notebooks, sticky notes, notepads and paper for your printer and copier.  Also, make sure your printer and copier have plenty of ink and toner so you don’t run out when you really need to print an important document.

Organization supplies

Staying organized is essential, so make sure you have a stapler and plenty of paper clips handy to keep your documents and printouts together.  Add some folders to the mix so you don’t lose important paperwork, such as employee files or legal documents.

Technology

Even if you have a tablet or mobile phone, having a laptop or desktop computer will make running your business much easier.  Sure, you can manage your bank accounts and marketing campaigns from the palm of your hand, but if you’re looking to do any advanced work, you’ll need a computer. Having a computer will help you increase your functionality and productivity, and you’ll have a place to store important documents.  While on the topic of technology, don’t forget to pick up a printer and wireless router to keep all of your devices connected.

Office furniture

Where will you sit? Where will you store all of these other office supplies?  Whether you need a full set of furniture or just a couple of desks, don’t forget to pick up office furniture for your new office.  Remember to buy storage pieces to store your other office supplies. Having storage pieces will help give your office a professional feel and help you work more effectively.