Many of us receive hundreds of messages a day, and even if many of these messages end up in the junk email box, we still need to screen and filter these effectively. We could simply blame our sleepless nights on technology, just like we would blame a table if we ran into it. We must use technology in our favor, maximizing its applied benefits and setting helpful boundaries so as not to become its slave. The following are some helpful tips I've used myself and suggested to others in order to effectively incorporate technology in our busy lives and work.
Tip #1: Learn specific computer programs that will help you in your line of work.
For example, if you write articles, learn MS Word; if you work with databases, learn MS Excel, and if you prepare presentations, learn MS PowerPoint. If you don't know how to use a computer, it is never too late to start. If you are a pro, see how you can go on to the next level. If you don't know any of these programs and you believe you should, hire someone who is proficient in the use of these. Delegate (effectively) whenever you can.
Tip #2: Maximize the use of technology to design your brand. Although you don't need to be a webmaster to have a website, you still want to make sure the "face" of your site clearly reflects your business "identity". Work closely with your brand designer and seek to learn the general aspects of effectively running your site. Learn how to maximize the benefits of having a website.
Tip #3: If you are overwhelmed with emails, consider using different email addresses for different purposes, and establish filters to block junk email or spam. If you have an assistant, coach him/her to pre-screen and filter your numerous emails. Train your assistant as to what messages you need to attend to.
Tip #5: If you have a home office, make sure you effectively set up work and resting times. Decide how many days and hours you will work, and take the appropriate breaks. Many are initially thrilled to work from home but eventually dread the seemingly endless working days. When it's time to "close shop", close your home office door and enjoy the rest of the day with your loved ones.
Tip #6: For the business traveler, if you travel for a couple of days, consider using a wireless handheld device to stay connected instead of carrying your notebook everywhere. Answering briefly to important messages maximizes your efficiency. You can always send a longer response upon your return. If there is any issue that needs to be resolved immediately, you can still use your cell phone or wireless device. Avoid establishing an immediate response system (unless your work relates to providing for emergency responses). Instead, establish a response time and stick to it: i.e., phone and email responses within 24 hours, excluding weekends. Communicate this decision to your clients.
Tip #7: If traveling for several days, keep contact with your family and friends. Consider connecting via phone or the internet. This may be particularly helpful if your have children (and spouses!) waiting for your return.
About the Author
Dr. Corá's chapter on Life-Work Management© is soon to appear in Getting Things Done: Keys to a Successful Business, with lead author and business guru, Ken Blanchard. In this chapter, Dr. Corá addresses key concepts to success, including the healthy individual lifestyle, the healthy organizational workstyle, common pitfalls, successful strategies, and the "AIM I AM" system of constant improvement for individual and organizational well-being©. AIM stands for Align, Integrate, and Manage your plan, I AM stands for Improve, Achieve, and Maintain your desired goals.
Dr. Corá is President of The Executive Health & Wealth Institute, Inc. Her expertise in work and life management inspired her to design a powerful program assisting executives in Leading under Pressure®, providing for effective strategies to maximize peak performance and productivity, while maximizing health and well-being. Her energized enthusiasm, strategic focus, and innovative style are qualities in action as an expert consultant, executive coach, and speaker, making her a key collaborator of Fortune 500 corporations and international organizations. She is a licensed medical doctor, mediator, has a master's in business administration, and is a professional member of the National Speakers Association.
The Executive Health & Wealth Institute, Inc., is a WBENC-certified international consulting firm based in Miami, Florida. Our experts provide consulting services, executive coaching, corporate advice, training workshops, seminars, and consensus building meetings, assisting executives and corporations in Individual and Organizational Health & Wealth.
For a detailed description of Life-Work Management programs, please contact us directly at wellbeing@executivehealthwealth.com, or call us toll free at 866-762-7632.
