Latest Articles
- 10 Tips for Creating a Data Goldmine
I have been working with many clients who have their information in a database but are unable to get the information they want or know where to find it. Usually the culprit is a series of issues that come together to create the perfect storm of inefficiency. The tips below will help you to prevent this storm and maximize the information in your database to increase productivity and profits.
- How to Make More Money in 2012 with Data Driven Decisions
I have mentioned in many of my articles about metrics. Things we use to measure success and how far you are from reaching your goals. Data is much more than that – it is a valuable tool to make solid business decisions. It also helps you to save as well as make money. Below are some of the metrics you can use to help grow your bottom line in 2012.
- Why Effective Reporting Makes You Money
Many organizations today rely heavily on their technology to get things done. This is something that will become increasingly important as we move into the future. Those who have learned to leverage the information they have can effectively market, close sales, produce their products or services quicker and save money on maintaining those customers. One way to achieve this is through effective reporting.
- Top 10 Reasons Why You Need a Bookkeeping System
As technology progresses it is becoming increasingly important for companies and non-profits to track their information. In a previous article I discussed how to maximize your customer relationship management software. This month I am going to talk about your bookkeeping system. These two areas tend to be neglected by a new business or existing businesses using an effective system that is too difficult to maintain. Either scenario will cost you money, time and sales. Below are the top 10 reasons why you should use a bookkeeping system.
- 7 Ways to Keep Your Database from Becoming a Digital Clothes Hanger
As part of the new reality, organizations are doing more with less. This translates into reduced staff, resources and in some cases office space. This has created the necessity to examine how organizations can use technology to be more efficient. One way is to purchase Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software. Doing a thorough research process and testing prior to buying your system. Once purchased, I encourage you to take the necessary steps to avoid it becoming a digital clothes hanger – aka an unused treadmill. Here are some tips on how to avoid this dilemma for yourself.
Time Blocking For Productivity
I was working with a client this week and we talked about blocking time and eliminating interruptions. Below is a statistic from the National Association of Professional Organizers about multitasking:
“People who multitask are less efficient than those who focus on one project at a time.” Star-Telegram.com
Coming from the keep your nose to the grindstone frame of mind this is a foreign concept. More and more we hear experts telling us that multitasking is a habit we need to change. Our 21st century society and all the technology has brought with it a whole new set of issues that business professionals of the past did not deal with. Just like Pavlov’s dogs, a cue comes we must answer it. Say no to interruptions and yes to focusing on what you need to get done. It is far more productive.
To help you do this, try the following:
• Time blocking
• Turn off your email alert
• Only open your email program when checking email
• Pick three times a day to check email and voicemail
• Give your parameters on your voicemail and email so others know when to expect your answer.
I was watching a video by Eben Pagan of Wake Up Productive and he offered a great tip on helping to prioritize your day.
• 40% on customer creation
• 20% on sales conversion
• 10% on content – what your product is
• 30% on management (time, people, business)
This lets you know what you should be doing during your time blocks for the day. I thought this was a great formula to really give people parameters.
Below is a sample schedule of blocking your day so you can minimize interruptions and still answer email, voicemail and questions from other people. This is just a starting place. Adjust the schedule to suit your needs and workflow. These can be shifted around but the first 90 minutes should be your most important task(s) of the day.
TIME AND TASK
First 90 minutes---Most important task & Customer creation
15 to 30 Minutes---Email, voicemail, questions
Second 90 minutes---Customer creation
15 to 30 Minutes---Email, voicemail, questions
Lunch break---Eat a healthy meal
Third 90 minutes---Sales conversion & content
15 to 30 Minutes---Email, voicemail, questions
Fourth 90 minutes---Management (time, people, business)
15 Minute Wrap---Wrap up you day and prioritize tomorrow
Let everyone know your visiting hours. This way they will collect all their questions and use your time and theirs more efficiently. For those who have a time sensitive job such as a lawyer or an admin in charge of multiple people you can check the email and voice mail for time sensitive emergencies and then start this schedule. If it is not a true emergency then address those messages at the scheduled time.
Please send me some of your techniques that have helped you be more produc