Files

Abstract

Careful filing is the key to success for many professionals. Just ask someone whose work style you admire (you know, the one who always gets her grades in on time, writes her grocery list in triplicate, that sort of thing) and you will probably hear that she keeps her files in good order. This is such a personal and culturally specific matter—oral cultures have no need for such things. However, it is a good basic habit to cultivate, as life just gets more complicated. It may be a good idea to keep some personal files—such as your contract, documentation about sexual harassment, journal notes about a difficult colleague—at home in a safe place. In the event of a legal challenge, you will still have access to them.