A to-do list is only useful if you cross things off as often as you add tasks on. If something’s been on your list for more than three days, do one of the following:
Management Tip of the Day
Delegate, Delegate, Delegate
Most managers complain of having too much to do, but very few of them effectively delegate work. In fact, delegation is one of the most underutilized and underdeveloped management capabilities. Here are three ways to do it more:
Don’t Waste Your Organization’s Anniversary
If your organization is coming up on an important anniversary — 10 years since it was founded, 20 years since you first launched your most successful product — don’t miss the opportunity.
Turn a Relationship into a Sale
It’s common wisdom that you’re more likely to make a sale if you build rapport with a customer. Instead of focusing on the transaction, emphasize the connection by doing these three things:
Use Sound Bites to Make Your Presentation Stick
Clear and well-articulated presentations are a pleasure to listen to, but they won’t necessarily be remembered. On the other hand, great quotes get picked up and repeated — whether at the water cooler, in blog posts, or on social media.
Energize Your Network
It’s not enough to build a network, you also need to maintain it. This means preserving your connections with enthusiasm so the best ideas, resources, and talent come your way. Here are three tips for doing that:
- Bring yourself fully to every interaction. Turn off your phone. Signal interest by sitting forward and asking questions.
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New Job? Only Make the Sacrifices You Want To
Every job requires giving things up, such as working long hours or spending time away from family. It’s important when considering a new job to know which compromises you’re willing to make:
Keep Your Team Small
There is well-known research that shows people’s efforts quickly diminish as team size increases. This is because team members reduce their input when they feel less responsible for the output. Use the smallest team possible to achieve your goals.
This may mean including slightly fewer members than the task at hand requires. If …
Maintain Control When Conducting a Job Interview
Make Your To-Do List Work
To-do lists can be lifesavers when it comes to managing your work. But sometimes they’re nothing more than a list of things you never get to. Here are three tips for making them better:
If You Both Work, Stay Happy
Many relationships fail for work reasons: too much travel, too little time together, and too much relocation. It’s not easy, but it’s possible to manage a relationship and two careers.
Help Your Multitasking Colleague Break the Habit
Everyone these days is trying to get several things done at once. But it’s frustrating to work with someone who won’t stop glancing at his phone or even takes calls mid-meeting. If a co-worker’s inability to focus is bringing you down, try these three tactics: