Time has always been a precious resource - but it is treasured even more so today. Present day lifestyles are often demanding and hectic. Because modern day society is challenged with busy schedules that are packed into limited timeframes, there are many people who want to know how to master time and relieve stress and pressures from deadlines.
Since time is such a cherished commodity, keeping track of time is a crucial necessity in a fast paced world – and this is especially true in the business world. Giving promotional clocks and watches as gifts is a growing trend as companies realize how important and valuable time is for people. Time is money, and nobody wants to waste either one!
On that note, let’s look at ten different ways that you can control and best use the time you have available. In the end, you may find that you can accomplish more than you initially thought was ever possible.
Method One - Scheduling
One of the best things you can do to help master time is to create a schedule and stick to it. Not only will a schedule help you remember, it will also provide you with various benefits. Your entire day will be mapped out, you will know how much time to spend on each activity, and you will generally find yourself sticking within those confines. You will be able to set aside certain hours for clients and certain hours for paperwork, which helps you better manage your time. Also, you can take advantage of modern day technologies and create schedules that can be changed on-the-go in a matter of seconds.
Method Two - Client Management
At some point you are going to discover that not all of your clients are worth spending time on. This might seem a bit surprising since clients are the lifeblood of any company. But letting go of one or two that drag you down might be a smart idea. It's something that you will need to carefully analyze and determine, but in the end, it will more than likely be a good decision.
Method Three - Cushioning
This is one thing that many people have yet to learn, though it is not a complicated concept. Simply allow yourself extra time when scheduling each activity. That way you have an option to use this extra time, and if you don’t, then you end up with some time free time to utilize as needed. Not only does this give you options, it also reduces the amount of stress that you have on the job.
Method Four – Learning
This might seem a bit obvious, but when it comes to learning, there are a few areas you need to cover if you want to be successful in meeting the needs of your clients, organization, and employer. If you have been working in your job for some time, then you probably know that demands are received on a continuous basis. If you received a request in the past that you did not quite understand, assume that you will need to do a similar task in the future and take the time to fully understand. This will help you get the job done faster the next time around. Also, learn more about your clients and how to best maintain client interactions. Learn what promotional products your customers would appreciate receiving and distribute these items. Then watch how your clients will save you time by contacting you when they need what you offer
Method Five - Client Understanding
It would be wise to take a look at your clients’ schedules and work to fit your schedule around theirs. This will involve knowing when they are busy, when they are free, and when they will be available to meet with you.
Method Six - Accuracy is Key
Many have adopted the belief that submitting rough drafts or half completed work has become acceptable. While this may be true, it isn't necessarily something that you should do. Make sure your work - such as a report, proposal, or any other document - is correct the first time you submit it. The less time you spend making corrections, the more time you will be able to spend interacting with clients - and clients are what any company is about!
Method Seven - Travel Reduction
At one time it was impossible to reduce travel in business, but these days there are so many other ways to communicate with long distance corporate clients. You could try the phone of course, but most people choose the internet as their primary form of communication. That being said, it is definitely something you should try out! It can certainly save both time and money.
Method Eight - High Quality Software
You might be tempted to use cheap or even free software, but there is a reason such software is cheap or free. You will undoubtedly find that the more expensive software options provide important benefits such as full time technical support, high quality functional software, and compatibility with other programs.
Method Nine - Decent Suppliers
As you probably know, there are some suppliers that you should work with and some that you should avoid. Never cut costs by going with a cheap supplier! It might initially save you some money, but cheaper suppliers (typically new suppliers) are inexperienced and may provide you with the wrong order or even fail to deliver at all. Then you will waste a lot of time recovering from such a situation.
Method Ten - Planning Ahead
If you know that your client is going to need a specific order for the year, then make sure you have enough of that item in stock for the entire year. Also, most suppliers will give you a discount if you buy in bulk. This is definitely something to keep in mind if you wish to maximize your time and money.
These tips can help you manage and master time. Remember, time is a valuable resource that should not be wasted. So spend your time wisely and reap the benefits!
When was the last time you recognized a staff person with a gift? Is today the day?
