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0:60 De-fragment Your Day
Each day, write down everything that happens: what
you do, incoming and outgoing phone calls, interruptions,
meetings, and breaks. Watch for patterns—when customers usually call, when you get the most
done, regular meeting and production schedules, etc.
With this information, you can arrange your more flexible
activities around those that simply must take place
at a certain time.
0:42 Minimize the Conflicts
If you’re observant, you’ll also discover periods when
interruptions are rare (e.g., early morning). These are
ideal times to take care of routine tasks, catch up on
business reading and correspondence and plan work
schedules. Also consider setting aside a time each day
or week for your marketing activities as long as those
hours conform to your customers’ schedules.
0:39 And Speaking of Your Customers
Even if you’re a “night owl” who is most productive
before the sun comes up, remember that “normal”
business hours are still the rule for the majority of the
working world. Organize your schedule to ensure your
availability when your customers are most likely to
need you, particularly if they are located in other time
zones.
0:27 Structure Your Future
Toward the end of each week, think about what assignments
and deadlines require attention within the next
five to seven days. By writing them down, you can set
priorities, and allot appropriate amounts of time to meet
immediate and long-term deadlines.
0:16 Expect the Unexpected
A fine-tuned schedule can fall apart for any number of
reasons—a new client opportunity, a problem with an
existing project, sickness, even the weather. Don’t fall
apart with it. If you’ve planned carefully, you know
what things can and cannot wait. Always keep your
cell phone charged and your calendar or PDA handy
so you can rearrange your schedule on the run if n ecessary.
0:08 Take Time Out
Don’t feel like you have to schedule each and every
minute of your workday. Breaks between appointments
or tasks are ideal for a stretch or quick walk, personal
phone calls, or just some pleasant daydreaming. When
it’s time to tackle that next task, you’ll be refreshed
and better able to devote your full attention to the task
at hand.
Source: SCORE “Counselors to America’s Small
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