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3.It streamlines communications between co-workers.
4.It creates a written history of communications within office.
Set Time Boundaries On The Phone
Frequently, phone calls can be long and drawn out, wasting time and putting you behind schedule. To avoid long-winded caller, set some time boundaries from beginning of call. If you are one placing call, start your conversation by saying, ?Hi Steve, do you have a minute to answer two questions?? This will let Steve know that you intend your call to be short and to point.
Another time-saving phone tactic to use when someone calls you is to set tone from beginning by saying ?I was just on my way to a meeting, but I have one minute I can give you.? Again, this clearly indicates that you are available to caller, but only for a very short time. When you end call quickly, they will have been expecting it.
Create A Phone Log
Create a phone log where you record all your phone messages and telephone numbers for return calls. Having to search several places to find scrap of paper where you wrote a message or phone number greatly increases chances of losing information completely. Keeping all information in one place allows you to flip back and forth to see messages from days and weeks prior, as well as serving as a record of who you talked to when, and subject matter discussed.
Consolidate Callback Times
It is easier to stay organized and focused when you are doing one thing, as opposed to jumping from task to task. Consolidating your telephone callbacks is a good way to knock out several phone calls quickly. Record a message on your outgoing voicemail which says you will return today?s phone calls ?between hours of X and Y.? This simple tip allows you to use phone as a tool for productivity rather than be a slave to it and lets people know when to expect to hear from you.
By implementing these five simple tactics in your workplace, both you and your staff will improve your communication, your organization and ultimately, your effectiveness.
Monica Ricci has been an organizing specialist since 1999, and her motivational presentations teach effective organizing and simplifying techniques for home and work. She also offers free email tips and ideas on how to make life simpler and more organized. Her topics include clutter control, paper management, time management, organizing space and procrastination.Contact Monica at 770-569-2642 or Monica@CatalystOrganizing.com.