Small business owners have to tackle a variety of tasks within their organizations. However, a lot of small distractions can mean big problems for entrepreneurs who want to focus on growing their business.
According to an article on Entrepreneur.com by Jane Porter, there are (at least) nine tasks that should be eliminated from your workday if you want to be a more productive business owner.
- Stop overloading your to-do list. Writing down a huge list of everything that needs to get done will demotivate you. Creating a daily to-do list is fine, but keep it manageable. Only include the essential tasks that need to get done that day.
- Stop having open-ended meetings. Know your priorities before you call a meeting, and make sure they get addressed. Don't let the meeting drag on because you got sidetracked with less important issues.
- Stop answering repetitive questions. If it seems clients and employees are constantly asking the same questions, it may be time to put an FAQ page on your website, and create a job manual for employees that answers basic questions.
- Stop taking the same follow-up approach if people ignore you. If a client isn't responding to your emails, don't keep sending them emails. Give them a call or drop by their office (if appropriate).
- Stop eating lunch at your desk. While it may seem like a time saver, you miss the opportunity to clear you mind. Sometimes the best ideas come after a break.
You can read the rest of the tips at Entrepreneur.com here.
