Organized365: September

Fall has arrived, back-to-school routines are established and we are in the home stretch with our 2018 goals. Maintain your progress and continue to move forward with this month's strategic organizing tips and tricks!

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Try a new organizing strategy from this summary of our August tips: https://www.p2gconsulting.com/single-post/2018/08/27/Organized365-August

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Wondering if your garage needs a clean out? Check the dust, cobwebs and watch for mouse droppings. If your findings make your skin crawl and you find you hesitate to reach for needed tools, it's definitely time to give the garage some attention. Keep in mind that as the seasons change, the tools you need change as well. Bring those rakes to the front!!

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Plan, Divide & Conquer

If your yard and home projects happen 'weekend warrior' style, list all tasks to be tackled. Next mentally acknowledge that your list is too long and vow to get as far as you can and appreciate your progress. Then divide the tasks to that you and the SO are not working on the same project in the same space at the same time. Lending a hand for a specific step is one thing, working on top of each other for an entire project is a recipe for conflict. Work on different aspects of the overall list and plan to meet in the middle with much progress made. Take time to step back and admire your work.

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Embrace the Unexpected

Halt yard work for a surprise opportunity to encounter nature and add a lasting memory to your weekend. Taking an hour to relocate the turtle babies your pup discovered provides a nice break and a great story to share. Renewed awareness of the treasures found in outdoors is an added bonus.

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F2F For the Win!

A glut of programs, apps, and devices can result in thinking that digital communication increases productivity. It is true that this may lead to an uptick in messages sent and received. However, that does not mean that you are more efficient or effective if a 5 minute walk to your colleague's desk would have resolved the matter. Be prudent about your use of technology to replace in-person connections.

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Don't Be A "Don't"

A top business etiquette no, no is arriving late. Start times, whether for arriving at the office or for a meeting, mean being ready to get to work at the appointed time. Pulling into the parking lot does not qualify as being at work on time. Entering the room does not count as a timely arrival. Be at your desk or in your seat when the clock strikes and you will earn a place in your employer's and colleagues' good graces.

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Volume Control

It is easy to get caught up in a passing conversation with a colleague however the whole office will appreciate your awareness of your surroundings. A quick conversation in the hall can be a loud distraction to colleagues working with doors open or in a common space. Walk the conversation to a meeting space or your office to avoid creating a disruption for others. Modulate your voice so that others are not inadvertently brought into your exchange. Your workplace will benefit and appreciate your efforts.

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Linger After Meetings

Meeting leaders & facilitators will learn a great deal about attendees ideas and reactions by lingering in the room after a meeting. Allowing everyone to depart before you provides quieter or diplomatic attendees to share their thoughts, concerns and suggestions privately. If your schedule prevents you from providing this time, invite others to be in communication with you following the meeting.

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Whether leading or attending, meetings with ongoing side conversations can be distracting. Avoid engaging in side conversations yourself, unless it is relevant to the current topic and then raise your point to the group after a brief consultation. Tangential side conversations can be managed with the provision of a 'parking lot' or holding space to track valuable insights and maintain focus. Do not have a side conversation to make or confirm social plans during your meeting!

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Arrive with a solution

No doubt your work can be frustrating. Rather than stew, brainstorm solutions from the ridiculous to the sublime. Select 1 or 2 of the most reasonable and draft an action plan and outcomes. If the result is a plan that you feel makes sense, take it to your next check-in meeting or run it past a colleague to test feasibility. Moving forward will relieve some of the frustration while highlighting problem-solving skills and can-do attitude.

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Welcome Questions & Suggestions

Listening to others is possibly the single most valuable action you can take either personally or professionally. Fielding questions will not only tell you with is unclear but also where colleagues may not wish to follow your lead. Remember that suggestions do not have to be adopted whole sale but often have a gem or two that will enhance the plan already in place. Listen, Learn and Move Forward!

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Celebrate the Win & Learn

An award, accolade recognizing a colleague's achievement is a win for the whole company. Positive appreciation reflects well on everyone. Let the star shine, extend sincerely congratulations and if you want some of that spotlight, watch and learn. Award-winning skills & behaviors can be learned. Build collegial relationships & go for it!

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Schedule Your Resources

Reserve meeting space, virtual or physical, in advance. If tech equipment is needed make sure it will be available at the appointed time. Schedule any advance set up and communicate with colleagues to ensure that all necessary materials and refreshments have been planned. With bases covered you are one step closer to a productive, well run meeting.

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Get a Jump on Tax Season

It really never is too early to prepare. Read our Tax Prep guide to start on a path to a stress free tax return. https://www.p2gconsulting.com/single-post/2018/09/13/Tax-Return-Time-Painless-Prep-Start-Now

With a nod of appreciation to @marydegroot

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If you are new to a profession, industry or business, you will have questions. Relying on your new colleagues to provide insight and guidance is a great way to build relationships and learn. However, Do NOT fall into the habit of asking someone a question you can answer for yourself with a bit of effort. Attempt to find answers independently FIRST, then clarify or ask colleagues for more detail.

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Bring It Home

Those diplomatic, team player skills that have colleagues singing your praises at work can be just as effective at home. Don't leave your thoughtful communication and can do spirit in the company parking lot. Friends and family will appreciate your support and collaborative efforts as much or more. Be attentive to the challenges those around you are facing and pitch in.