Why a Toolbox May Be Your Most Valuable Tool

Every time we facilitate or manage an off-site meeting or event, we bring a lot with us.

Our vehicles are usually packed with necessities like centerpieces, easels, easel pads, signage, folders, programs, our documents . . . you name it.

Arguably, one of the most valuable items we haul is our trusty Husky toolbox.

It took us a while to realize we needed a container where we could prepack all the small office supplies one needs or might need when away from their office. We had been making do by grabbing a scissors from a desk and Post-it notes from the supply cabinet. But then we’d forget to return the scissors to the right person, and Linda wondered where her stapler was. And don’t even get us started on how much time it took to pack those items. Every. Single. Time.

If you regularly hold events away from the office, you never know when you might need a scissors or an extra roll of tape. Yes, course, you could ask someone at the conference center if you could borrow theirs. Or you could make a last-minute run to a store. But it’s less time-consuming and less stressful if you know exactly where yours is. Plus it builds credibility when someone says, “I need a Sharpie,” and you can practically hand them one before they finish the sentence.

So, up your game and bring your own supplies. You’ll be the hero.

You can pack office supplies in any container. We use an actual toolbox because it has a comfortable, heavy duty handle for carrying. It also closes with latches so that small items don’t fall out during transport. But a clear storage tub of any size would work.

Use smaller clear storage containers within the tool box (or larger tub) to keep things organized and easy to find. If you own a label maker (because really, who doesn’t?!), be sure to label each storage container so you can easily identify items and see those that need to be restocked.

While you could use opaque storage containers, clear ones make it much easier to see what is inside without opening each container. Time saver!

What you include in your toolbox depends on where the event or meeting is held. For example, you may add sunscreen and bug spray to the kit if you’re hosting an outdoor event.

But here’s a list of some standard supplies that can be prepacked and ready to go without too much preparation:

• Post-it notes
• Index cards
• Pens
• Toys
• Name tags
• Markers (Sharpies, Flip Chart markers, dry erase markers)
• Stapler
• Tape (double stick, gaffers tape is preferred over duct tape)
• Binder clips, paper clips
• Fidget toys (to be used for longer meetings)
• Scissors
• First aid supplies (e.g. Band-aids)
• Personal products (e.g. Advil, cough drops, tampons, breath mints, hairspray)
• Hand sanitizer
• Zip ties
• Box cutter
• Command strips of various sizes
• PowerPoint Clicker
• Batteries, multiple sizes
• Tape measure
• Power strip and extension cords (these might not fit into your toolbox so keep them nearby)
  
  

It’s like back-to-school shopping for grown-ups!

We love having these supplies ready to go at a moment’s notice. A quick review before an off-site event and we’re prepared for the unexpected. Our biggest challenge is remembering to restock items after every use.

Happy supply packing!