Short and sweet – interruptions are stealers of YOUR time.
10 Interruption Pointers:
1/ Especially for Managers – have a designated ‘open door’ policy time.
2/ Attempt to complete your most important projects before everyone is needing YOU.
3/ You may need to rearrange your furniture so you are not so venerable to walk-ins.
4/ Don’t let the interruptions frustrate you; the people factor is the most important aspect.
5/ Create a time and space for handling questions.
6/ Plan for ‘the interruptions’!
7/ Communications: give all pertinent details in the beginning; establish a FAQ; provide a sheet of/for new changes (cut down on reasons to be interrupted).
8/ When asked – “Got a minute” – respond ‘No. But, I will at 11:30 – can I come to your office?’ or, ‘Can I meet you for lunch?’
9/ Set an appointment to talk with person at a non-busy time. “I am in the middle of something, can I get back with you at 3?”
10/ Determine the reason for the interruption? People need info? They need to vent? It is your Boss or VIP Client? Ask the question – “How can I specifically assist you”? – that should help move your day along.