From the second we land our very first job we are constantly told that we need to manage our time effectively. No matter whether we are waitressing, packing shelves, inputting data or answering phones and emails and no matter if we are at the bottom of the hierarchy or the CEO, time management is one of the keys to success. Especially in retail in the lead up to Christmas!

We’ve have created 5 simple steps to help you nail your time management, in any role, in any organisation.

1. Ensure you completely understand each task before starting it

   Nothing wastes our valuable time faster than having to go back and re-do things. Understanding each task and what is expected of you will ensure there is no double handling.

2. Create a realistic plan

   Each step of each task should be planned out to maximise productivity and minimise time per step, in turn minimising time per task. If each task is planned accordingly, individuals should be able to manage and complete multiple tasks at once.

3. Prioritise your tasks

   based on the estimated time of completion and the order in which they are due. If you have a small task you can complete without taking time from larger tasks which are due earlier, get it out of the way and return your focus to the bigger tasks.

4. Know your limits

   If someone asks you to complete a task and you don’t feel it is a fair or realistic request based on the time you have allocated to existing tasks, say no. Give an explanation if required but remember that people will always prefer one task well done than 2 incomplete or poorly done tasks.

5. Review your work before submission or distribution

   Taking the time at the end of each task to renew the expectation, goal, plan and final product will give you the opportunity to catch and rectify and mistakes before someone else returns them to you. This simple step will save both you and anyone you are working with time at the completion of each task.

Good time management can be implemented simply and easily into every task both professionally and personally once an individual finds and implements a time management scheme that works for them. Trial and error and plenty of practice will help to create good habits that can be taken from the start to the end of your career.