careernav.

We all need to understand the importance of being organised both in our careers as well as our everyday life. Being able to manage your time effectively is an extremely important trait to have as it will always be highly regarded throughout your career.

The other side of it is that it will free up your time, so you can have more time with your family and friends. Below are some points to remember for effective time management, that we hope will help you to manage your time better.

1. Preparation. Whether you have to attend meetings or greet clients, always be prepared. Allocate enough time to be able to fully discuss any relevant issues within the meeting or with your clients. You will give the image of being professional. Nobody likes someone who fusses around trying to find the right information being relayed to the relevant people.
2. Timing. Be careful in your planning. Assess your days correctly and it will be smooth sailing. Bad judgement will have a definite impact on your day. Always allow for meetings that run overtime, travel time if needed, or that client that just loves to chat!
3. Always confirm appointments.  It can be a little tricky juggling many different appointments on a day to day basis. Modern technology makes it easier for us enter appointment times and send ourselves a reminder of that particular appointment. Confirming your appointments shows you respect the time of others as well as your own.
4. Be on time. The best thing anyone can say about you professionally is “he/she is always on time”. It shows you are reliable while managing a busy work schedule, as well as showing respect to those you will be meeting with. You will gain the respect of your co workers and set an example of how to present yourself.

The bottom line of it all is be consistent. We all work a set number of hours, and within those hours we are expected to do a certain amount of work. Maintained properly, your day will run somewhat smoother that a miss managed day that feels as though it will never end. Keep in mind your professional persona is on show, so stick to your schedule allowing time for everything.

Good luck in your scheduling.

Got any other tips for time management? Then why not post a reply for your peers to read in the forum.