Many work at home professionals find that they don’t have enough time during the day to complete their tasks. They find that they are working all hours of the day and night, and yet nothing gets done. In order to increase revenue, gain new clients, and keep current customers and clients happy, one must be organized and efficient. It is very important for work at home professionals to maintain productive work habits. Here is how.
Have a Schedule
Being self employed and working from home provides a great deal of flexibility. However, it is still important for any self employed professional to have a schedule. In order to create a schedule, all tasks that need to be completed within a given week should be written down. The tasks should then be divided up logically based on the number of days per week that one works.
As tasks are completed, they should be checked off. This is not only a good way to measure productivity, but it’s a good motivational tool. In addition to the list of tasks, self employed individuals should also have a calendar which includes any appointments, meetings, or personal obligations that may interrupt the normal work flow. Organizing time is key to increasing work at home productivity.
Avoid Hidden Time Wasters
Hidden time wasters are the things that seem to be productive when they really aren’t. This would include, but is not limited to, constantly checking emails, browsing Facebook, surfing LinkedIn, and chatting on Twitter.
These tasks seem productive because professionals can meet new contacts and possibly obtain new business; however this is not always the case. Therefore, these tasks should not take up the bulk of anyone’s time. Business owners, freelancers, and solopreneurs must consider if these tasks add to their bottom line. Does one really get measurable results from spending the majority of their day on these things?
While these activities should not be avoided completely, they should only make up a small part of the day. Instead, time should be spent on basic business functions as well as activities that increase revenue and generate new business.
Break When Needed
Taking short breaks during the day can help increase concentration and focus, thereby boosting efficiency. According to a study at the University of Melbourne, browsing the internet for short periods of time can help one recharge and increase productivity. The study found that those who take short internet surfing breaks are 9% more productive than those who do not.
Measure Goals
Every professional should have measurable goals. Each work day should be spent doing something that contributes to reaching these goals. Remaining productive can be difficult when there is no boss around to monitor how time is spent. However by implementing these strategies, freelancers, business owners, and solopreneurs will be able to accomplish more in less time.
 |
