Gratitude...

Be Organized

1. Organization – Make a checklist.  Start your day by looking at the list of tasks you need to accomplish.  Unfortunately, we can't keep everything in our head and getting the list on paper,  or using an online organizer will increase your productivity.

2. Limit distractions – You may need to block facebook and other distracting websites.  Use headphones to tune out nearby conversations.  We actually don't multitask, our brains switch between tasks frequently.  We are not as productive when we switch tasks, as when we are focused one thing at a time. 

3. Get rid of Easy Tasks – Take some time to get the easy and simple tasks checked off your list.  If it will take less than 5 minutes to complete, just do it right away and get it done.

4. Prioritize – Always know your deadlines and what needs to be done when.  Be mindful of sequencing and how your tasks impact other people.  You may need to accomplish some things earlier because it is needed by another team member.

5. Use In-person conversation when possible – Problems can be solved much faster when you are working together, without a lag created through email.  Additionally, it's easy to misinterpret things via email, but when talking in person, questions can be asked and answers clarified to be sure everyone is working together.

6. Take breaks – Go to lunch!  When you let your brain relax, you will be more productive when you return to the project.  Stress reduction will give you better insight to the problems and allow you to get more accomplished.

7. Routine – We love patterns, create one that works best for you.  Some people do best when they accomplish their hardest tasks first thing in the morning.  Others will work better if they write emails first.  Find out what is best for you and follow it whenever possible.

Good Relationships

When running a project, relationships determine if you will receive repeat clients, new clients, and how the client feels about the project.  There are several things you can do to improve your relationships.

1. Make your deadlines:  Show them that they can depend on you and trust you to do a good job with their resources.

2.  Keep them in the loop:  Let them know early on that their choices have consequences and what they are so that they can make informed decisions and not be surprised later on. If changing the vinyl to ceramic will increase the cost and require a time extension, let them know during the decision process.

3.  Know your teams strengths: If there is a problem on a job, make sure that the person interacting with the client will be able to stay calm and level headed.

4. Demonstrate that you desire the project to be successful:  Call the client regularly and let them know that you are actively engaged in the process.

5. Have a personal relationship with your client:  Take them to dinner, play golf, make sure you are friends so that when problems occur you are on the same team.  Know who they are and let them know more about you.

6. Listen:  Make sure that you are hearing their concerns and are ready to meet their needs and expectations.