Radio Sales Café

Everyone in radio advertising sales knows that there's always far more to be done in a week than there is time to fit it all in.

So here's this week's question -- with many thanks to RSC member Sheri of Weiser, Idaho, for the idea:

What tips can you share for effective time management?  What are your best time-saving strategies?

Looking forward to reading your replies!

When I start something I stay with it until it is done, keep my desk completely clear at all times with the exception of what I am currently working on, and do not get more than 2 major projects going at once.
It's been working for me for the past 20 yrs.)

I try to review my planner at night for ideas and first thing in the morning when I get into the office so I know what is going on. I try not to check my email first otherwise I get stuck in the office. ...and don't let a piece of paper that requires action pass thru my hands more than once.

I plan my upcoming week on Friday afternoon. Who I'm going to see, What I'm going to say. The trick is...to stick to it! I do my copy and follow up after 3pm each day.

As a 26 year veteran, I am a fan of "to do" lists. I make a to do list for the upcoming week (as well as daily) and cross items off as they are completed. I post important appointments on my Outlook calendar. We are fortunate to have a sales assistant so, whenever possible, I delgate work to her instead of trying to do it all myself. I remind my clients in advance when copy is due so there are no last minute scrambles and turn in production orders as soon as possible rather than letting everything go until the nth hour. It makes my life easier and our traffic department appreciates it.

I just heard 2 good tips this week:
"There is no such thing as time management - just people management" John Knape - Achievement Unlimited
"Make a To Do list and a Not To Do list" - to them both! Jim Collins from Good to Great

Two things.
A. Make all appointments for a given day in the same geographic location. You aren't closing when your in the car for half an hour between calls.
B. Get a good PDA or Smartphone that syncs to your computer. That way you have no excuse for forgetting an appointment. When someone says call me in a month, enter that To Do right then. I have calls scheduled for next December

Set daily goals the afternoon before and know what you plan to do the next day.

Have a daily plan and work it. Always leave some time for things that could just pop up and if nothing pop's up use that extra time for prospecting or learning.

Alan Rock
Orlando, FL