Better Manager 7th prelims:Better Manager 7th edition

summarize how effectively you spent your time by writing V for
valuable, D for doubtful and U for useless. If you want to make
more refined judgements give your ratings pluses or minuses.
For example:

Time Task Rating

9.00–9.30 Dealt with new e-mails and V

incoming mail V

9.30–9.45 Discussed admin problem D

9.45–10.00 Discussed admin problem D

10.00–10.15 Deputized at meeting U

10.15–10.30 Deputized at meeting U

10.30–10.45 Deputized at meeting U

10.45–11.00 Deputized at meeting U

At the end of the week analyse your time under the following
headings:

■ Reading.
■ Writing.
■ Dictating.
■ Sending and receiving e-mails.
■ Telephoning.
■ Dealing with people (individuals or groups).
■ Attending meetings.
■ Travelling.
■ Other (specify).

Analyse also the VDU ratings of the worth of each activity under
each heading.
This analysis will provide you with the information you need
to spot any weaknesses in the way in which you manage time.
Use the time-consumer’s checklist at the end of this chapter to
identify problems and possible remedies.

ORGANIZING YOURSELF

Such an analysis will usually throw up weaknesses in the way
you plan your work and establish your priorities. You have to fit
the tasks you must complete into the time available to complete
them, and get them done in order of importance.
Some people find it difficult, if not impossible, to plan their

192 How to be an Even Better Manager