The Efficient Office

Use the phone if you think your email will turn into a game of several email strands. Often a 30-second phone call can cover the same items that would result in an exchange of 4-8 emails.

How to get a response when sending email. Click link to get all six tips.

How to have a productive meeting. Click to learn the five steps.

The next time you’re tempted to postpone doing something you know you should, ask yourself “What is the NEXT action I need to take?” Often we procrastinate because we’re overwhelmed, so the key is to reduce the size of the task – over and over and over — until you get it done!

You get busy, create a few piles here, a stack over there, and suddenly you can’t see a single horizontal surface! Go around the room and collect up every homeless item you find, creating a set spot for each. Click to see the list.

The person who sleeps more wins. The secret to getting to bed on time lies in considering whether our late-night hours are honestly productive and determining your optimal bedtime. Here’s how: add how many hours you need to sleep nightly to function optimally. Estimate the longest amount of time it takes you to fall asleep. Add these two numbers together and subtract it on a clock from the time you need to wake up. The time you come up with will be your goal bedtime.

There comes a time when you have to stop evaluating something: just bite the bullet and do it. Contemplating taking action isn’t taking action. It gets nothing accomplished. Being a quick decision maker is critical to success.

With identity theft a reality for most people, a shredder is as essential a tool as a telephone or computer. Keep these tips in mind when you shop for one.

Tracey’s Toolbox: CableDrop Cord Clips. All business owners have experienced the octopus of tangled up cords that powers your laptop, smartphone, Nook, and more. Fortunately, these great little tools will help you tame that cord monster. You simply stick the CableDrop Cord Clip to your desk (or wall, table, etc.) and slide in your cord. Now, the cord is securely held in place. No more tangles! You can search for these great little tools online, but I recently ordered a set from the Container Store. (Here’s the link: http://www.containerstore.com/shop/office/deskAccessories/cordControl?productId=10027231) Enjoy your organized cords

In any field, there are those who seem to accomplish more in 24 hours than their competition. They are on top of the latest trends and processes. They are agile in their thinking and quick in their actions.

Why is this? Is it because they have been better trained? Is it because they have more people on their team? Actually, no. These people are just ordinary, everyday business owners like you and me.