I’m looking for staplers in your underpants drawer
Snooping around in someone’s desk or cabinet is a surefire way to make your relationship with them awkward. But if you’re a big snoop and have no intention of minding your own business, here’s a pretty neat trick that won’t raise suspicion. The next time you ruffle through someone’s belongings, do so while holding onto an empty stapler.
If they catch you snooping, tell them that you’re looking for staplers. If asked why in their underpants drawer, reply with an innocent comment like “I didn’t know where else to look.” It becomes more awkward when staples are actually on their desk instead of where you were caught searching.