Page 56 - Time Management Skills.p65
P. 56
Soft Skills for Public Managers
Time Waster Time-Wasters: Causes & Solutions Solutions
Possible Causes
Lack of planning Failure to see the Recognize that planning may
Lack of planning benefit of planning take time but it saves time
and effort in the long run.
Action-oriented
(perhaps not action-oriented Emphasize results,
otherwise the above point is not activity.
similar to this)
Lack of planning Success without Recognize that success is
Lack of priorities often in spite of, not because
Lack of goals and of, methods.
objectives
Write down goals and
objectives. Discuss priorities
with co-workers and family
members.
Over-commitment Broad interests Learn to say no.
Over-commitment (Impractical) Re-assesses your goals
and priorities
Confusion in priorities
Develop a personal
Failure to set philosophy regarding time.
priorities/Over Ambitious Relate priorities to a
schedule of events
Management by crisis Lack of planning Apply the same solutions
as for lack of planning.
Management by crisis Unrealistic time estimates Allow more time. Allow for
interruptions.
Management by crisis Problem oriented Be opportunity oriented
Management by crisis Reluctance of others to Encourage fast transmission
break bad news of information via grapevines
Telephone as essential for timely
Telephone Lack of self-discipline corrective action
Meetings
Meetings Screen and group calls.
Be brief.
Desire to be informed and Stay uninvolved with all but
involved essentials. Manage by
exception.
Fear of responsibility for Make decisions without
decisions. meetings.
Indecision Make decisions even when
some facts are missing.
48
