All workers and workdays are unique, and while most of us experience a traditional 9-5 programme, the differences in our workdays and duties are becoming more and more pronounced. Because there are only so many hours in a day, making the most of your time becomes critical to achieve in the sea of endless tasks and roles. But do not despair, being productive at your desk or during meetings just got easier with our 5 simple and effective strategies to help increase your productivity in no time:
- Tracking and limiting time spent on tasks
This tip may seem quite obvious, but as many online distractions such as social networks, blogs, or news channels take the lion’s share on our attention, it is essential for you to know how and where your time is going. As research suggests, only around 17% of people can accurately estimate the passage of time. As a consequence, task-tracking becomes a vital aspect when it comes to increasing productivity. Online tools such as Rescue Time can be very useful, as they track the sites and platforms you use throughout the day, measuring your productivity and letting you know of your performance over days and weeks.
- The “2-minute rule”
Developed by entrepreneur Steve Olenski, the rule is all about making the most out of the small windows you have at the workplace. If you see a task that you know can be done in two minutes or less, then you should do it right away. The reasoning behind this method is that small tasks actually require less time than postponing and getting back to them later. The “2-minute rule” can change your productivity immensely, especially in an environment where you have daily multi-tasks missions.
- Have a plan of attack
Surely, in theory, being proactive rather than reactive at the office makes perfect sense, yet implementing the vision might be something of a challenge for some. Allowing incoming phone calls and emails to dictate your daily schedule won’t let you do a great job, and having a plan of attack is the best way to take back control. While you should set aside some time for responding to emails, having clear goals at the beginning of each day will help you maintain focus and gradually achieve tasks, be them easy or long-term commitments.
- Creating innovative meeting spaces
Here at Essex, we use creativity and innovation to drive organisations forward and make them better places to do business. Our Event Essex team are experts at providing interesting and innovative meetings and training spaces to aid productivity and create an environment that’s collaborative and motivating. Take our ever-popular Essex Business School for example, this venue is the UK’s first zero carbon Business School building, with its unique architecture and spectacular indoor year-round garden our EBS venue makes the perfect meetings and training space guaranteed to capture your audience’s attention and help them be 15% more productive during their working day.
Take a look at the venues we offer here.
- Take a well-deserved break
Working extra hours may earn you some additional brownie points, but it greatly affects your creativity and focus. Give your mind and body a well-deserved rest by taking regular breaks during your working day or meeting/ training sessions – From short walks to the office’s kitchen to the long breaks from large projects, having time to recover after a demanding role is essential for your level of productivity. If you choose to book your meeting, away day or training session at the University of Essex you’ll always be a short walk away from tranquil parkland, health and fitness centres, various places eat and more! Our venues offer a diverse range of amenities perfect for taking time out of your hectic schedule to relax and revisit your work with a clear head and fresh ideas.
All in all, whether you are enjoying the routine at the office, or you are the go-getter who craves a new challenge with every working day, productivity is all about giving yourself the proper tools to ensure you get the most out of your working day.
Shake up your next team meeting or away day by booking one of our versatile, modern, traditional and innovative meeting and training venues across our University of Essex Colchester and Southend campuses.
For more information on the venues and services we offer please visit our dedicated meetings and training page or contact our team by completing our enquiry form here.
