Learning how to multi-task
As we all know, PR is an industry full of rapid and continuous changes. There are many elements involved which require a PR practitioner to juggle a number of tasks at the same time. Multi-tasking is the key to surviving in this industry.
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I have learned that for some people, like myself, multi-tasking is not a natural skill and that it needs to be learned. When I realised that I needed some help to improve my multi-tasking skills, I did some online research and found a number of helpful resources. This write-up, in particular, caught my eye and has proved to be really effective in improving my skills. Here are a few tips from it that I have found very useful:
- Outline your goals and write them down:
Every morning, I write down my priorities for the day in order of importance. I find that this helps tremendously, as not only do I remind myself what needs to be completed for that day, but it allows me to ensure that I do a little bit of work on each task so that they are all completed before deadline.
- Multi-tasking is not for all tasks:
Some projects or tasks require complete attention for hours at a time and, are therefore not conducive to multi-tasking. Make sure to tackle these bigger projects first and then focus on the smaller ones which can be interchangeable.
- Choose tasks that are routine and mundane to multi-task:
I have found that this is extremely important as it is easier to complete a routine task while multi-tasking as opposed to a new task. Choosing routine tasks allows for minimal mistakes as I am already familiar with the process and effort the task requires.
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- Work ahead:
If I am aware that I have a busy day ahead, I try to begin early and work consistently so that I am able to complete all my tasks properly and that they are not rushed.
- Work on one thing at a time, but alternate between tasks:
The best way for me to multi-task is to set time limits for each task. This way I am able to ensure that I am working on each task for the right amount of time. I find that it is more effective to move on to the next task when your time is up and not dwell on one task the entire day.
- Work smarter, not harder:
When I know that I have a lot to complete, I try to complete each task as efficiently as possible, otherwise, I end up spending unnecessary time on them. This doesn’t mean that I intend to deliver average work, it just means that I do exactly what is required so that I can move onto other tasks.
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Working in this industry, I am constantly working on different projects at the same time and I sometimes find it stressful. When I find myself feeling a bit overwhelmed, I take a moment to revert back to my list of priorities and regain focus. I am very happy to say that I feel that my multi-tasking skill has definitely improved, and the tips above have certainly helped me.