We’ve noticed a trend in the past couple of years in our business and with our clients as well.  As a business matures and grows the people in that business must do the same.  The Financial Times points out that Staff Time Management is one of the key differentiators between growing firms and those that stagnate (ref:  https://goo.gl/zu0tX6).   The logistics of that growth often follow a stretch then grow pattern.  Meaning, the people already in the company are asked to stretch their abilities and take on more responsibility at first.  Once the company reaches critical mass, a new employee is brought in (growth) and many duties are moved from existing employees to the new employee.  Hence, the current employees get more specialized and have a more narrow scope of work on a regular basis.  Then the process starts all over again.  The company asks people to take on more responsibility until it can bring in another person that will ease the tension.  This cycle calls for critical Staff Time Management and is critical to continued growth.  

As more responsibilities are heaped onto any one person their time becomes more precious.  During these stretch periods we need to reevaluate our time management and work schedule to make sure we have our most valuable responsibilities at the top.  At Leverage, we utilize some of the more common task management and scheduling systems, but the critical point of the effort is in the accountability.  We use our time management skills and structure to determine what level of production should be expected over any given period of time.  From there we can set deadlines for deliverables with a clear understanding of the chances for success.  This article gives some good high level pointers for Staff Time Management (https://goo.gl/Oj3kc1), but here are the steps we use at Leverage.  

Staff Time Management Keys

1. Decide exactly what you want
2. Write it down – thinking on paper is critical
3. Set a deadline on your goals
4. List the steps necessary for achievement
5. Organize the list into a plan (priority and sequence, visual layout)
6. Take action on your plan immediately
7. Do something every day to move closer to that goal

My personal favorite from that list is number 7.  We are big believers in doing something better every day.  

You can use technology to help manage time and schedules.  Mobile devices can be a valuable tool in this effort.  However, those mobile devices can present a number of issues in your work environment.  Make sure to read our guide on how to handle mobile devices in your business before implementing any new systems so your company remains protected.