Blog

Improve your Time Management Skills

Time management is a skill that can elude many managers. As a manager you’re responsible for your own time and how those you supervise spend theirs. Finding time to accomplish everything that needs to be done sometimes may seem impossible.

But some simple shifts in thinking can help you get a handle on your time and use it more productively. Practicing the following techniques can help you begin mastering the elusive skill of time management.

Following are the five smart tips for time management:

Organise your to-do – list: Always keep your notepad ready to note-down your to-dos then you should either organize your to-do in a diary, digital application. Mark followup, set reminders, put your items in calendar. Commit the right amount of time on a specific day to each task and you’ll actually be able to check them off. Just make sure you’re not making lists instead of tackling other responsibilities.

Attack One Type of Action at a Time: Try completing the same types of tasks before moving to the next. For examples make your phone calls, then answer emails, then write proposals. You’ll likely save time and increase your productivity.

Eliminate Distractions: People still need your time and attention through the day and you have to respond to a crisis or unexpected need for an immediate decision. But you can “train” others to give you the time you need to get your work done. Don’t hesitate to block out time not to be disturbed.

Plan For – and Take – Breaks: It’s important to relax throughout your day. You’ll actually return recharged and more productive. Save up several routine, non-deadline-driven items to tackle all at once and you’ll have more time to accomplish the big things.

Communicate: Get in the habit of asking yourself if whatever you’re doing is the best use of your time. If not – shift to something else. Start recording your thoughts, conversations and activities so you can get an idea of exactly how much of your day you spend on each. Schedule time to communicate with others on high-priority tasks and projects.

As a manager you may face a heavier workload than ever with responsibilities increasing and deadlines growing shorter. It may seem working overtime is the only way to get everything done.