Working efficiently

Mercy C. Quiambao

“Working smarter means getting the best results with the least amount of wasted time and energy. It requires stepping back to think through how we work, not just how much work we do or how many hours we log doing it.” ---Lahle Wolfe (February 2020)

To be able to work efficiently, Wofle suggests a staff to prioritize tasks based on the amount of work involved as well as the scheduled due dates. Allow a sufficient amount of time for each project, but set a timer for yourself as a challenge to get the work done faster. Don't jump back and forth between tasks.

Focus on one at a time, using a productivity technique known as "chunking," and allow yourself to be absorbed in doing good work. When the timer goes off, take a break and switch gears onto a different kind of task to keep yourself engaged.

Wolfe also noted that if you want to work faster, it's helpful to have everything accessible and organized. The more time you hunt through files—or worse, piles on your desk—the more distracted you become.

A clean workspace helps clear your mind, too. Keep your desk in order and your computer desktop clutter-free so you can get right to the task at hand. Spend a little time each day putting your work away and cleaning up, so your workspace is ready for your best work when you return.

Wolfe emphasizes the need to minimize distractions like lowering the ring tone volume on your cell phone and store it away from view. Turn off any other noise, such as television programs, or any music that doesn't help you focus on your work. Establish expectations with your co-workers and shut your door to avoid disturbances. Don't avoid socializing with your colleagues, but keep it to break times so you're not bouncing in and out of work mode.

To be an efficient and productive worker means prioritizing your work and allowing sufficient time to do it correctly. Practicing good work habits will ensure positive, consistent results. The most important step you can take toward working more efficiently is to make a plan that you can follow each day.

Whatever the setting in a sizeable organization like a school district or division, both teaching and non-teaching personnel are expected to work efficiently as they can to achieve goals and objectives on a day-to-day basis.

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The author is Administrative Assistant III at Betis National High School, SDOPampanga