Executives and entrepreneurs are often faced with a lot of distractions.
It’s difficult to know how to best manage all the interruptions that come your way, and it can be hard to focus on what you need to do.
In this article, we’ll highlight 5 ways for executives and entrepreneurs alike to limit distractions and interruptions so they can focus on their priorities.
#1. Turn off your phone and email notifications so that the only time you check them is on purpose.
At Priority VA, we structure distracting activities like email, Slack and Asana inbox at the beginning of the workday, mid-day and as you’re wrapping up to leave. This way, you don’t lose time responding to messages ALL day.
#2. Put up a “do not disturb” sign or use something like an app to block out any interruptions for blocks of time that you need to focus on specific tasks.
The best place to do this is your calendar.
We are all for scheduling events on your calendar that say, “do not disturb.” An Executive Assistant can create those blocks for you and make sure they are PROTECTED.
#3. Require meetings at least 24 hours in advance so your schedule doesn’t change day-of (barring an emergency).
It’s not uncommon to give members of your team power to schedule things on your calendar for review or to have a short meeting.
We recommend creating a rule that any appointments must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance. It’s nice knowing your next 24 hours are locked in, unless there’s an emergency or crisis.
#4. To protect your time, you need to create a culture that doesn’t rest on your shoulders.
Many of the questions or concerns that come your way can be answered by someone else.
If you are building an empowered team, or leveraging the support of an Executive Assistant, they should feel empowered to respond to questions or interruptions on your behalf.
Remember, your time is limited.
As executives and entrepreneurs, you are most productive when you focus on work that only you can do. Meaning, it requires your voice or your face.
There may be some questions or interruptions that only you can answer. But if there are many, it may be time to get support through an assistant.
#5. Partner with an Executive Assistant.
Without the help or accountability of an EA to manage your time and protect you from interruptions, it’s really easy to fall back into old habits of doing everything yourself.
We know how hard it is to find the right person for your business, so we created PriorityMATCH.
Our done-for-you direct placement program helps you find an Executive Assistant who will work on your schedule and in your virtual office.
It doesn’t matter if you’re just starting out or have been running a company for years.
Our team of Talent Acquisition Specialists will help you create the perfect match by asking all the right questions about what’s important to you and what type of personality would be best suited for your needs.
And don’t worry – we’ll take care of everything from there! All while giving you peace of mind knowing that this is one less thing on your plate.
Get started with Priority MATCH today.