Time well managed begets right action
THE PAUCITY of time is a constant fear chasing many of us. For not only is it intangible but also notoriously evasive. No matter how hard one tries, time is never enough. Thus it is true to its ephemeral nature and makes us subservient to it, especially at the workplace.
Caught in the whirlwind of work, swamped by impossible deadlines, and countless presentations, the ever diligent employee is short of time, even for a gasp of air. Ever so often, workplaces witness the frenzied clamour to finish the work one is assigned; however, time quite simply, is never enough.
Every organisation will reap beneficial results if it helps employees in this essential task of using time well. Organisations need to propagate tools for effective time management. Employees will then be able to develop strategic methods of work, streamlining activities such that they become more productive, and more competent, adapting to change without procrastination. Thus working at a steady yet prolific pace they can meet the demands of their jobs. The employee will understand the nuances of time management and better his performance owing to the clarity and organised method of work that comes with better planning. Imparting tools of time management will help the employee by assisting him in making the best possible use of the scarce resource, i.e. not piling up work but allocating and doing the right thing at the right time . An employee can manage time efficiently provided he learns to:
Prioritise
The employee must realise that to simply fill up one's time with work that is piling up everywhere is a futile exercise. Prioritising is critical. This is possible only if his tasks are clearly defined and goals set. Tasks can be ranked in order of urgency and importance. Management gurus categorise goals as short term and long term. Employees are so lost in everyday trivia that long term goals are often dumped in oblivion. A `to do' list, with prioritised goals will help save a lot of time.
Schedule
Deadlines and time frames for work help employees organise their work efficiently. One has to be however careful while setting deadlines. Over ambitious goals and overloading of employees will prove counterproductive. Hence an estimate of the quantum and time required to complete it must be made. In short, the tasks and deadlines must be realistic.
Gain clarity
Often delays in delivery occur as the employee, especially new recruits are unclear about operational methods, or lack the information and skills to accomplish the job. Adequate training, instruction and orientation are imperative.
A brief with well articulated instructions about the procedure, purpose and significance of a task helps the employee perform as per expectations without wasting precious time.
To further help employees use their time better, one can provide the requisite infrastructure and technical tools like appropriate software. When faced with the paucity of time, employees should have the liberty to seek advice from seniors.
Effective time management skills are imperative as one learns to dissipate the frenzy, and work in a systematic and organised fashion. Time managed well, gives clarity of purpose and yields right action.
UZMA HYDER
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