Supposedly a cliché, ‘time is gold’ is often mentioned when workers are faced with deadlines or some such activity that has a certain end. A valuable resource shared by everyone, it is easily the most precious because life and its attendant activities revolve around minutes and hours. As a virtual assistant, time management becomes a central factor in the organization and delivery of tasks.
Lack of priority setting, procrastination, and lack of knowledge in the usage of proper technology tools are three of the common enemies of time management.
For virtual assistants, creating a to-do list of the five most important tasks for the day is key for getting things done. It also helps if a to-do list for the week is prepared to insure that the work plan is on track. With these lists prominently displayed on a computer frame, a virtual assistant will remember.
Because of great flexibility available to virtual assistants, procrastination can easily set in. Working from home presents more challenges such as playing with children or doing household chores that can be disruptive. Discipline and self-control are important as much as focus and determination so that assignments are delivered on time.
Another good way to stay focused is by following a “time out” schedule for yourself. Sometimes knowing that there will be a couple of hours for relaxation at the end of the day is enough to concentrate on the job at hand.
Tools such as Skype, Google calendar, and Dropbox are tremendous help in staying on track. Becoming informed and acquiring the skills for these tools will enhance a virtual assistant’s work performance.
Time is money and nowhere else is this truth more evident than in a virtual assistant’s world. Creating a ‘done’ list will produce a sense of accomplishment for a virtual assistant and guarantee satisfaction for the clients.