Ten steps to improve productivity
Plan ahead. Compile a ‘must do today’ list at the end of each day – for the following day – so that you are ready to start what is important when you arrive at your desk.
Guidance and Ethics, Practice Management 07/03/2014- Plan ahead. Compile a ‘must do today’ list at the end of each day – for the following day – so that you are ready to start what is important when you arrive at your desk.
- Arrive early. Try and get to the office at least 15 minutes before opening/the phone starts to ring, in order to make a good start.
- Remember the ‘urgent/important matrix’ – what is important is seldom urgent, and what is urgent is seldom important.
- Use time effectively. Work expands to fill the time available to complete it.
- Do not re-invent the wheel. Contact a colleague who may have dealt with a similar matter to get advice, precedents and know-how.
- A problem shared is a problem halved. Share a difficult file with a colleague: an objective eye might help solve the problem.
- Sort files into batches according to their work type and deal with similar files at the same time to increase efficiency for you and your support staff.
- Take breaks. A ten-minute walk can help you think clearly. Leave your smart phone behind!
- Get money on account from your clients – we always work better with a full tummy!
- Issue interim bills – cash flow is king.
