I recently started a new job, and with the new job came a new office. Shortly after I got settled into the office, I started making it my own. And that meant unpacking some of the stuff I wanted to be surrounded with on a daily basis, my toys.
I’ve had all sorts of jobs since I started working many, many years ago. I’ve had a cubicle. I’ve had an office. I’ve had a desk tucked away in the corner. I’ve also just carried a lunch pail with me, and set up any where I could find a spot to sit down while out in the field. But one thing remained constant, I’ve had something to show that I am a geek, and I show it with pride.
I like to think that all of us comic book fans, geeks and nerds do this. Now you may not have action figures displayed on your desk, because not all workplaces are accepting of that. But if you have a computer at work, I am willing to bet you have a geek theme as your wallpaper on your computer screen. Am I right?
Each work place is different too. If you happened to work in an industry that embraces geek culture (let’s say… video game designer), you can get away with more than you could working someplace like a bank. You would probably be encouraged to surround yourself with items that can inspire you creatively. But if you worked someplace that was more “professional” you could probably sneak in something small, that you could have at your work station.
Right now at the office I have a couple of things set up on my desk. One is my Captain Kirk action figure from Star Trek II. I originally bought it years ago when I worked for my company previously. When I left I packed it away with some other figures. When I returned, it only seemed fitting that Kirk should return to my new desk.
I also have a Thor coffee cup at the office too. I walk down the hall with it proudly. It definitely stands out in the lunch room, and everybody know that it is my coffee cup.
The final thing on my desk, is by far one of the coolest, and biggest toys you could ever have in an office.
Galactus.
My new desk is big enough that this mammoth action figure can stand on my desk. There are not too many workplaces that can accommodate this action figure.
Having geek stuff on your desk at work, can be a great conversation starter. There have been many times where a client or supplier has come in, and seen my toys, and we start a conversation. Most times people are very interested in the stuff in your office. I’ve had people ask me about Star Trek, or about comics. When they see my computer desktop (which is G.I. Joe) they definitely ask me about that. It is a nice way to break the ice with a client, and have them get to know you right off the bat. I find the client trusts you more, because they have a personal connection to you.
I like to have my stuff with me, because it makes my work environment more comfortable. You spend most of your time at work, and I enjoy my day at work when I am surrounded by things that remind me of having fun. Or remind me of my childhood.
As I said before, not every workplace is accommodating to having geek stuff on display. You have to gauge your office or workplace accordingly and figure out what will work for you. Even if it is something small, that no one will notice. You can just smile to yourself and know that it will be our little secret.
