Posts tagged Tad

Work can be a stressful place. People have a million things to get accomplished, and seemingly no time. By the time you’ve finally started on that big project you’ve been working on, the skies have darkened and everyone is making their way to the parking lots, leaving you and the cleaning crew all alone in the office. As you are frustratingly wondering, “What in the world did I do all day?” read up on the best ways to ensure you get the most accomplished while you’re stuck at work.

Limit your water/snack machine/coffee break/bathroom trips – Getting up to stretch at some point during the day is inevitable. After all, being in that cramped cubicle can be physically taxing on your body. But try to limit your breaks. Sure, you’ll get hungry for a snack or soda at some point and will end up making a quick run to the vending machine, and then there’s nothing wrong with that. But when people in the next department begin to know you on a first-name basis when the people in your own office barely even know your name, you know you’re making one trip too many. Focus on the task at hand and get some work done.

Return from your scheduled breaks on time – We all remember what it was like to be in class on a boring day, then hear the bell ring for lunchtime or recess. Remember that feeling of sheer liberty that washed over you, knowing you had some time to do whatever you wanted? You didn’t know whether to run outside and play kickball with your friends, scarf down the peanut butter and jelly sandwich with Capri Sun juice your mom prepared, or sneak in a quick nap in the shade behind the trees. It’s the same way in the corporate world; people are just a tad bit older. Kickball has turned into the conversation about the club or bar over the weekend, and that sandwich has probably turned into an unhealthy fast food meal. Anyway, we digress. We know you’re excited about your breaks, but be sure you get back to the office on time. Remember that you’ve got a ton of work waiting for you when you get back.

Try not to browse the Internet if you don’t need to. Popular, addictive websites like Twitter, Youtube, and Facebook (amongst others) are the main culprits. These sites are typically known to the corporate world as “side-trackers” – they can keep you occupied for hours on end if you’re not careful. Use the Internet for business purposes only; you’ve got plenty of time to check your favorite artist’s newest music video, or who your old college roommate is dating when you get home.

Keep cell phone usage/texting to a minimum (unless for emergencies, of course). Crazy how time flies, huh? Ten years ago, it seemed like only businessmen and people of extreme importance had cell phones. Nowadays, everyone and their grandmothers have one (if not more) of these ubiquitous technological creations. Now while they can undoubtedly provide hours of fun, they can also easily distract you while at work. You may be tempted to text back your friend who has the latest, juiciest bit of gossip, but realize that your boss needs that report done ASAP, and you haven’t even started it yet.

Cut down conversation time. Sure, you’re excited to hear about your co-worker Annie’s wonderful, wild weekend, but realize that you have a million things to do. You have plenty of time to catch up throughout the day. Even though the work day seems to be a long eight hours, they go by pretty quickly, and in the blink of an eye, everyone is packing up and going home. Meanwhile, you’re stuck in your cubicle with an eye-level stack of papers and a can of Red Bull. Cut down on the chit-chat and get your work done.

Realizing that these keys are for your own good is important and are also a clear sign of maturation. Remember that at jobs, first impressions always count. It doesn’t matter if you’re working for one your dad’s moving companies or a corporate job; you have to show the same tact and discipline. Keep these tips in mind the next time you’re trying to jump-start your productivity at work.