7 ways to increase productivity

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Have you ever wondered why sometimes you are very productive and work is a breeze as everything just flows, and other times you struggle to get much done at all?

Here are seven ways you can increase your productivity.

1. Focus on your strengths and manage your weaknesses

The first thing to do is to create two lists: One listing all the tasks you enjoy doing and are good at, and the other listing jobs you don’t enjoy or don’t do well.

Once this is complete, your goal is to keep performing the tasks that you enjoy and delegate or stop doing completely as many of the tasks you don’t enjoy. The extent to which you can achieve this will impact your productivity because work will be more fun and your confidence will increase.

2. Create a ‘why’

Now that you are in touch with what you enjoy and don’t enjoy about your work, you need to get in touch with your ‘why’. Having a reason why you are in your chosen career allows you to focus on the big picture. This will in turn ‘super charge’ your motivation and productivity.

3: Set goals

Get into the habit of setting short term, medium term and long term goals. Short term can be anywhere from 7 days to 3 months; medium term can be 3 to 6 months and long term can be from 12 months to 5 years.

Use what works for your working style and particular industry. Setting and achieving clearly defined goals will give you and your team a greater sense of accomplishment and satisfaction which leads to increased productivity.

4. It’s ok to ask for help

We can all fall into the trap of thinking that we have to have all the answers. Sometimes we need help and most people are happy and willing to help, it’s just a matter of finding the right person that can either provide what you need or can do something about helping you get it. A tip: make sure you bring this up with the appropriate person at a time of the day or week when they are not under too much pressure or distracted by other matters so they can focus on helping you.

5. Learn how to resolve conflict

Conflict is an opportunity for growth if dealt with upfront rather than ignored and left to fester. Even the smallest unresolved issue with a colleague can cause miscommunication and lack of team work, which can result in reduced productivity.

It’s crucial that all staff members are equipped with and willing to use the communication skills needed to handle clashes of needs, values and personalities. It’s not just about talking to each other, what’s important is how it’s said and how well one listens.

6. Avoid procrastination by having a structure

Procrastination in one area can lead to loss of productivity in another because when you get things handled you build momentum through action. That’s why you hear people say, “If you want something done ask a busy person”.

The best way to avoid procrastination is to have a working structure that keeps you on track. A very simple structure is a ‘To Do’ list that reminds you to make that phone call and send that email.

7. Celebrate your wins

Whenever you and/or one of your team achieve a goal or complete a task well make sure to celebrate and then reward yourself and them in some way for a job well done. This is often overlooked because people don’t realise how important it is.

By celebrating and rewarding even in the smallest way we all feel nurtured, and this will help create higher levels of productivity and motivation.

By applying these simple ideas you will increase your productivity and the productivity of your team.

Phil Schibeci is a renowned corporate speaker and workshop facilitator. In his book, How to Get Out of The RUT Race, Phil has put together a practical guide that provides readers with the tools to get out of a rut and achieve major life goals. For more information visit www.philschibeci.com or contact phil@therutrace.com. The first person to email Phil with a question or comment about this article will receive a free signed copy of his book.