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Human Resources Expert Expert: Margaret Lobenstine
Time-management strategies
Q: My desk is unruly and my energy is scattered. Can you suggest some novel time–management strategies?
A: While there can be many reasons for scattered energies, you might consider the old adage "Know thyself."
- Are you someone who strongly believes in being true to your word? If so, resolve not to tell people, "I'll call you/get these out to you." Rather, provide yourself with extra incentive to follow through by saying, "I promise I will call you/have these to you absolutely no later than _____ ."
- Are you someone who loses your train of thought every time the phone rings, whether you screen calls or not? Then keep post–its available at all times and, before you pick up the phone, take a few seconds to jot down exactly what you were planning to do next. Then it's right there waiting for you when you're done.
- Are you a social person, who loses productivity by chatting with people you've called for even minor information? Then call right before lunch or right at the end of the day, when they are more likely to be rushed. Starting your call with, "Good morning, Mr. James. I just have one quick question for you, if that's okay" rather than with the pro forma "Hi, Mr. James. How are you today?" will save you time.
- Are you good at rationalizing and making excuses? Then imagine what you might say to a child or friends of yours who've tried to get away with what you're telling yourself! And act accordingly!
- If you tend to get "lost" on the Internet, set yourself a timer (and a reward!) for when you have to log off.
- If you're good at doing a lot of different tasks for your business but can only do them when your mood matches the task, and not necessarily when the task appears in your Day Planner, then the reason for your scattered energies may be that you are a Renaissance Soul and should check out my Web site at www.ToGetUnstuck.com.
Some issues discussed in the expert forum are complex and continually changing.We recommend you consult a professional advisor about your specific circumstances, needs, and applicable laws. More details.