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Time Management
> Interruptions
Interruptions soak up our time like a sponge.
Here are five simple ways to LIMIT interruptions so you can accomplish what
you set out to do each day.
POST A DO NOT DISTURB SIGN
Schedule certain PERIODS during the day when you're available for questions,
feedback, etc. and conserve other periods for your own purposes. Let everyone
involved know when you're available, and when you are not. During the time
slot when you're not available, hang a "Do Not Disturb" SIGN, along with the
time slot visitors should return.
SCREEN YOUR CALLS
While you're working on an important project, have your answering machine --
or an office assistant -- take your calls. You'll be able to work on your
project, and then RETURN calls at a later time when it's more CONVENIENT.
DON'T ENCOURAGE UNSCHEDULED VISITS
At the office, remove visitor chairs unless you have a legitimate appointment.
Visitor chairs do nothing more than ENCOURAGE people to stop by and shoot the
breeze. At home, ask friends and family to schedule visits with you, rather
than just stopping by.
CLOSE YOUR DOOR
If you have an office with a door, close the door while you're working. When
you have your door open, basically it's seen as an open INVITATION. A closed
door implies you're working on something important and should not be
disturbed.
WRITE UP INSTRUCTIONS
People will interrupt you when they have QUESTIONS or don't know how to do
something. Whenever you can, put answers to common questions and instructions
in writing. Give these instructions to the appropriate people so they can look
up ANSWERS, rather than disturbing you for every little thing.
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