Time Management on the Job

We spend at least 8 hours a day at work, and often have a long list of to-do’s waiting for us before we even make it through the door. We often feel like we need to work harder in order to complete everything or that we need to have more hours in a day. Being able to manage our tasks at work is a must.

Here are some office organizing ideas from the professional organizer in NYC to help you take control of your day and to-do list in the office:

1. Complete the most important tasks first. Take a few minutes at the start of your day to prioritize your list of tasks. Whichever tasks are most important or have the earliest due date need to be done first. This way, when these tasks are done, whatever is left on your list that is not a priority can wait until tomorrow if needed.
2. Focus. When you are busy and only have so much time to spend on a project, you need to be focused. Close other browsers, put your cell phone away, shut your door, and allow yourself to give complete and total attention to your task.
3. Keep your desk clutter free. A clear desk cuts down on distractions. Plus, knowing where everything is, such as paper clips, pens, or pencils, will save you time searching when these items are needed.
4. Do tasks in groups. Instead of filing a document, making a phone call, responding to an email, and then repeating the cycle again, group your tasks together by action. If you have several items that need to be filed, file them all at the same time. Carve out specific time for responding to emails periodically during the day. Block time for phone calls and make them back to back. Bouncing between tasks is very inefficient.
5. Create systems. Having systems in place will save you time and frustration and ensure that you can find information and materials as needed. The systems should be relevant to your specific office. For example, create a filing system and use it so papers always have a designated place to go.
6. Keep that to-do list in one place. Whether you use pen and paper, a computer program, or an app on your phone, keep just one to-do list and make sure to always add tasks to the list. If you are given a new task and forget to add it to your list, trying to remember it later will cost you precious time.
7. Don’t be afraid to delegate! If you already have too much on your plate, it’s okay to ask for help. Maybe a few tasks can be shifted to a coworker or delegated to a newer staff member. Make it easy on yourself and ask for help when you need it as opposed to taking on yet one more task that will overwhelm you.

Time management at work is important, and with these office organizing ideas from the professional organizer in NYC, you will be working through that to-do list in no time.