Turn deadlines into milestones

WHEN a person's career graph shows a steady rise in performance, you can be sure of one thing- the effort is no cake-walk! Minding the nitty-gritties, putting in considerable amount of effort and a conscientious commitment are the makings of an outstanding performer. Hard work, coupled with a high degree of resilience is more often than not the reason for this achievement.

Challenges are as much a part of career progression as are the triumphs. However, success often presents itself as an alluring challenge. The catch is when this opportunity is deadline bound, and the lead-time is all you've got to prove your worth.

faced with a do-or-die deadline, there may be chance of a slip up if one does not exercise caution right from the word `go'. Treating the deadline as sacrosanct is the only way to turn it into a milestone.

From the modest trainee to a thriving chief executive officer, each has his fair share of deadlines to reckon with. Whether enforced or not, deadlines are to be appropriately met. Here's how to rid yourself of the `deadline dread', and meet each one confidently, every time!

Under promise but over deliver

Before making a commitment, check your capabilities. Mediocre performance is not appreciated, and substandard quality is a definite `no-no' if you have already pledged something higher. Time can also be a constraint sometimes, so make sure you allot reasonable amount of time to accommodate any emergencies as well. Deliver more than what is required and it will give you a chance to call the shots. It is always better to under-promise and over- deliver, than to do the reverse.

Caution!

Getting a move on immediately after you've been briefed about a project can give the head start you require. Moving in fast helps you get your mind working and lets you get into the groove faster.

Conversely, keeping things pending till the last minute will give you a headache as well as a heartache, with a strong possibility of a resultant poor performance. Be vigilant and keep tabs on the progress of your work to make sure you are right on schedule. You need to do this everyday, or else you might just find yourself in deep trouble before you even know it.

At times you may be fortunate enough to get an extension in terms of time. However banking on this to happen every time is misleading.

While handling deadly deadlines

Sometimes, the workload can be enormous and the deadlines overwhelming. There may also be times when you will have to work overtime in order to get the job done. Remember if stress gets to you, it will definitely tell on your performance. Take one day at a time. If something's bothering you, share it with a colleague or teammate. Don't go around moping. Get some reinforcements if you need to, to pull your act together.

Biting off more than you can chew

There's always the possibility of being the eager beaver and taking on tasks that you may want to do, but don't seem to have the time or the ability to do it. This enthusiasm may take you overboard, so tone down your gusto. Before you jump to do the job, estimate the time and resources a project may take. Think before you commit.

Invaluable support

A large unwieldy project is best managed when split into manageable areas. Mark those which may need you to get extra help. If the task is not designated specifically to you, request the support of your teammates to meet the deadline.

Ace those deadlines

Before you hand over the project, run a check. Go over the requirements one last time. Tie up any loose ends to make sure you deliver in top quality. By using a measured and steady approach to handle a task that comes tied-in with a deadline, you'll find yourself getting your act together, and climbing the corporate ladder steadily.

ARCHANA JAYAKAR

archana.hyd@careercommunity.co.in