Create A Lean Schedule: Prioritize, Maximize, Strategize
Be wise with your time and where you spend it.
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We all understand the significance of time, how it can often feel like sand slipping through our fingers. As marketers, this sensation can often be exacerbated as we find ourselves juggling numerous tasks across various digital platforms.
In the vast and complex world of marketing, making efficient use of time isn't just an advantage, it's a vital skill that differentiates the good from the exceptional.
As a full-stack marketer managing all aspects of marketing for three major brands, I can say with absolute certainty that time is my most precious resource.
Picture this - there's a social media strategy, an email marketing strategy, paid advertising strategy, website optimization strategy, and all of this is peppered with affiliate marketing, partnerships, development projects, and new business discovery.
It's a rich mix that demands one thing above all else - lean time management.
A must-have for me…
Creating a schedule that maximizes my output and drives business success is an ongoing journey.
I haven't discovered the magical formula for perfect time management, but I have identified key strategies that have drastically improved my productivity.
Let me introduce you to the three pillars of 'lean time': Prioritize, Minimize, and Strategize.
Prioritize
Recognizing what tasks are important and urgent is the first step. Set focus times each week dedicated to important tasks, and do not hesitate to discuss your priorities with your team or superiors. Be proactive and vocal about your tasks. It's surprising how much clarity you can get simply by talking it out.
For Example, when planning a new social media campaign, I use a task priority matrix, dividing tasks into categories.
Urgent: Top Priority
High: Next 1-2 Weeks
Medium: This Month
Low: This Quarter
*Quick Win*: Less Than 15 Minutes To Complete
This helps me stay focused and ensures no task gets overlooked.
🔑 Key Takeaway: Try using a task priority matrix for your next project. It can offer a whole new perspective on how you see your tasks and can drastically improve productivity.
Minimize
Learn to let go. Not every task requires your personal touch. Determine tasks that can be distributed to others, automated, or simplified using a template, saving you a significant amount of time.
For Example, I often automate my email marketing campaigns and use templates for frequent communications.
This gives me more time to focus on tasks that require my expertise and creativity.
🔑 Key Takeaway: List your recurring tasks and see what can be automated or delegated. Don't forget, there are numerous tools available that can make your life easier. Invest some time exploring them. (Personally I prefer Monday.com for the great automation that is integrated)
Strategize
No ship should set sail without a destination. Having a clear roadmap can guide you through the daily hustle and bustle. I recommend having a 1-month map for immediate deadlines, a 6-month plan for upcoming projects, and a 1-year goal for your overall vision.
For Example, I always have clear timelines for my website optimization strategy. Monthly targets keep me aligned with immediate objectives, half-yearly milestones set the pace for major updates, and a yearly goal provides the overall direction.
🔑 Key Takeaway: Start setting timelines for your projects. It not only gives you a clear picture of where you are heading but also helps in tracking your progress.
Remember, managing your time effectively boils down to understanding that your time is valuable.
By Prioritizing, Minimizing, and Strategizing, you can transform your busy schedule into a lean, result-driven machine. Time management is not about getting lots done; it's about getting the right things done.
Use these key takeaways to start making changes in your routine today. I guarantee you'll see a significant improvement in both your productivity and your overall work-life balance.