In running my business for nearly seven years, I’ve learned the hard way that if you don’t have a routine and system in place for managing emails, calls, meetings, etc, you’ll quickly find that instead of YOU running your business, your business is running YOU.
Over the years I’ve gotten more serious about setting and sticking to a daily routine and implementing some systems and concepts that have drastically helped me manage so many projects, stay on top of my email and hit deadlines and goals. Some of which I’m sharing here! By way of preface, I know not everyone works from home and all of our lives look different, but I think there are some ideas and concepts here that you can apply to your business no matter what you do that’ll help you take control of your day and ultimately, your business!
Here’s what my average daily routine looks like and some quick tips that I’ve implemented that have really helped and that I hope encourage or inspire you!
My Average Daily Routine:
8:30am-9:30am – Emails, administrative work and communication on current projects
9:30am-11:30am – Project one
11:30am-12:30pm – Emails round 2, scheduled calls and quick work or administrative work
1:00pm-3:00pm – Project two
3:00pm-4:00pm – Reactionary/unplanned work
4:00pm-5:00pm – Email wrap ups, additional admin work, etc
Additional Quick Tips:
- When scheduling calls or meetings, give 2 or 3 available times
For example: Don’t ask a potential client “Are you available to meet next week?” Instead ask, “Are you available Tuesday at 9a or 2p or Thursday at noon?” - Set and stick to meeting days
For example: Meeting days may be Tuesday’s, Wednesday’s and Thursdays and no more than 3 a week to allow time for your actual, money making work. - Create email filters
For example: Create an email folder for leads, potential new clients, follow-ups, emergency emails or 2nd level priority emails, etc. - Use a daily planner
For example: Action Day Planner or something that you can jot your calls, email reminders and weekly goals on.
Takeaways:
So, what are YOU going to apply to help you take control of your business?
