Interruptions can really derail your day. You stop once to take care of the person who walked into your office and before you know it, an hour has gone by.
How do you handle the daily interruptions of the phone, people arriving at your door or cubicle or a request from someone? Interruptions are bound to happen, but there are ways of handling them so that you can stay on point during the day. Here are a few tips to help you.
- While you’re working on some of your top priority tasks, close your door for a chosen length of time so that you can stay focused
- At times when the phone seems to be ringing off the hook, use that handy “do not disturb” feature. Then go back and check your messages and return calls before the end of the day.
- When someone enters your office stand up to greet them. This may discourage them from sitting down. If they need something that’s going to take less than 5 minutes, take care of it. If it’s going to take longer than 5 minutes, promise to get back with them at a time that’s more convenient for you
- Place a personal item in the extra chair in your office or work space. People are less likely to move something personal to sit down