By Victoria Knepp, Account Associate
How many times have you been asked, “How do you keep yourself organized?” in a job interview? How many times have you asked yourself, “How can I keep myself organized?” Well, no matter who is asking the question, in the marketing communications world an automatic answer is a must.
Working with multiple clients and multiple projects for each is something that makes my job so exciting, but also the reason staying organized is a priority for me. It helps that I enjoy the color coded calendars and sticky notes, to-do lists, timelines… I’m literally smiling as I’m typing. But no matter how excited you get about organization, these incredibly simple organization tips will without a doubt keep you smiling throughout your work day.
1. The one you’ve heard before.
Make a to-do list. It seems so basic, but it’s a perfect way to look at everything you have to do all in one spot. Plus, you get the glorification of checking a task off after it’s complete!
2. Color code it.
A calendar is helpful, but when you’re working on multiple projects, color coding them makes it easy for you to visually differentiate them.
3. Use a calendar.
A to-do list is great, but not so much if you don’t know when the tasks need to be done by! I may have jumped the gun on that color coding suggestion. But, that’s the importance of using a calendar. When you make your to-do list make sure you prioritize your tasks for two reasons. One, you’ll know what to do first and two, you’re reminding yourself the deadline by marking it on the calendar. Online or on your wall, a calendar can do wonders.
4. Time block.
If you just have to get to those five things today, make it happen. Set reminders on your online calendar or make a note that at a certain time you’re moving on to the next task. This will help you work more efficiently and get to everything you need to, imagine that.
5. Keep your desk clean.
If you work in a clean space, you’ll automatically feel more organized. Yes, that means your 27 sticky notes, 4 stacks of papers and especially that empty lunch container from yesterday have got to go. Here are some tips to clear any clutter.
6. Take it all in.
Meetings throughout the day can bombard you with new projects, tasks and information. Take notes, ask questions, then take a moment to re-read your notes and make sure you’ve got what you need before you sit down and start that new project.
7. Get that eight hours in.
Not the nine to five at the office, I’m talking about the sleep you need to wake up refreshed and take on the day.
8. Multitasking isn’t always the best.
Tunes can help keep you going, multiple windows open can help you jump from task to task and … but sometimes all you need are you and your keyboard to get those words flowing.
9. Take five.
Take a break every now and then. Walk around the block, do a few jumping jacks or whatever you need to clear your brain, reduce stress and get some creative inspiration.
10. Figure out what works best for you.
Did the color coding make you dizzy? Don’t do it. Can you not survive without your pump up music? Keep it. All of these can be helpful, but not all of these may be the best way for you to stay organized. But make sure you try them… put that on your to-do list right now!