Here's the SELF-ASSESSMENT you can take to learn IF you're creating an inspiring workplace.
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Create an Inspiring Workplace
Have you ever scheduled time to work on a project while in your office? You know, two or three hours in the morning to write or research something; the time you need to get your mind wrapped around something new.
Then, someone asks, "Do you have a minute?"
You can relate.
AND, you know that it always takes "more than a minute."
Interruptions at work are a major cause of people working late hours, not finishing things on time, and having to take work home to do late at night or on the weekends. The results areyou may feel like work is never done, there is always something more to do, and whenever we see someone, or see their name in our e-mail inbox, we get stressed about what is coming our way!
This is NOT an inspiring workplace!
What are people REALLY asking for when they ask for "just a minute?"
In our workshops, participants tell me people are asking for advice, opinions, permission, ideas, information, and approval. When I ask what they really WANT when they ask you for a minute, people sayattention, focus, friendship, camaraderie, and understanding.
That's why it takes more than a minute!
Leadership means minimizing the number of times people interrupt you and maximizing the time you DO spend with people.
Here are TWO ways to MAXIMIZE interruptions:
1. Write everyone's name on a 3X5 note card.
If you work in an office with more than 3 people, start there. Each morning, flip through the cards and add something to talk about or share with them.
I recommend you add a project to ask them about, a compliment to share, and a few words of praise for work well done. Once per day, make a point to speak with them one-on-one, and let them see you review the card.
Make a point to let them know you're "bunching" the items to talk about. The message you send is that you think it's important, once per day, to preempt any issues as well as celebrate good work.
2. Memorize this mantra:
"No, I'm sorry, I can't talk right now, I'm in the middle of something I need to focus on. When can I come and talk with you later today?" It's going to take practice, especially for those of us whom people count on to always give them "just a minute."
Give yourself a month or so to practice these tips, and you'll soon be enjoying longer blocks of study, writing, thinking, and research time—without the barrage of interruptions. Management thinkers and business coaches have for years explained the importance of collecting larger chunks of time to focus on significant projects.
These blocks of time rarely just "show up."
We actually have to schedule and use them wisely.
Imagine that you could learn the skills required to be a better, more effective and more productive leader.
When would you want to start? How about now!
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