t used to be easy to spot the disorganized salesperson. The cluttered car. The desk hidden under huge stacks of papers and files. Post-it-notes covering every inch of the computer screen and calendar. But today, with virtual offices and electronic files replacing paper and post-it notes, it's much harder to uncover disorganization. Does that mean it's no longer a problem? Not hardly! Maintaining control over reams of data and computer files can be just as challenging if an effective management system isn't in place.

If you feel the need to improve your organization and information-management skills, the following tips can not only give you the appearance of success, they'll help you succeed:

• Take Hold of the "One-touch" Concept. The smart paper-pusher handles each piece of paper only once. Don't toss it aside with the intention of following up at a later date. Make the decision right there and then to act on that document or phone message or note.
• Trash It. Keep a wastepaper basket by your side every time you open your mail. Lose the junk mail. Toss the torn envelopes.
• Take a Note. Rather than scraps of paper, use a bona fide notepad to take down important data. You'll lessen the risk of losing a valuable phone number or name by recording it in a secure and easily accessible place. And when you've finished filling each page with information, it easily can be filed.
• Stick to One A Day. Use only one calendar for all of your appointments. Choose what works best - either a Palm Pilot, Day Runner or computer calendar program ... and stick to it.
• Avoid a Vacuum. Don't fall into the trap of labeling files "Miscellaneous" or "Pending." These become black holes of paperwork.
• Schedule Study Time. The surefire way to get out from under those mounds of trade magazines, periodicals and newspapers is to set aside at least 20 minutes each day to read. You'll not only stay on top of what's happening in your market, but you'll be making a positive contribution to your recycling center.
• Keep coordinated. Do your paper files match your computer files? Your file drawers should mirror your PC file directory.