Time Saving Tips for New Entrepreneurs
When starting out as an entrepreneur or small business owner, it may feel like there just aren’t enough hours in the day to accomplish what needs to be done. Sometimes this may actually be the case and work needs to be outsourced, but many times it just boils down to time management. Here are a few ways to ensure you’re using your time optimally.
Stop Multitasking
It may feel like a superpower, but in fact, multitasking is actually a productivity killer. No matter how advanced we may think our brains are, they can only really focus on one task at a time with any efficacy. So rather than spending an hour or more on two tasks, spend 30 minutes on each and you’ll quickly see how much more efficient you are when you focus on one thing at a time.
Group Tasks With Similar Tasks
Along the same lines of multitasking, switching gears from one thing to something completely unrelated can really take a toll on our productivity. Take a look at the duties that need to be done, and consecutively complete the ones that require you to be in the same mental state. For example, if you are a business coach, it would be smart to create your content for the week immediately after a coaching session, as your mindset is already focused and in alignment with the needs of your clients.
Delegate, Just Don’t Hire Someone for Every Task
Take a look at your to-do list and decide what must be done by you, and what could be delegated or outsourced. If a job can be performed with more competency by someone who is more skilled, consider delegating it. If a project can be completed for a small fee, saving you valuable time, outsource that too.
It’s important to note that you do not need a different team member for every single task. A single employee can handle scheduling your social media posts, sending the weekly newsletter, following up on late payments and booking a few podcast interviews for you. Hiring help is great, but in the beginning stages, you need to make sure you’re spending those dollars wisely. That being said, don’t outsource it all. There are still plenty of tasks that need to be done by you, the CEO.
At the end of the day, time is a new entrepreneur’s most valuable asset. Make sure you are constantly assessing and improving your time management skills and your business will thank you!
