Australians are working harder, faster and longer to keep up with the increasing demands of modern business. In what many can relate to as the ‘disappearing week’, the ability to deal with multiple tasks in a short space of time has become a vital skill. 

Multi-tasking has become a key factor in the selection of employees because organisations want people who handle stress positively and who can deal with the demands of multiple deadlines by working smarter, rather than harder. Here are some easy tips to help you manage time more effectively.

Prioritise your work
To regain control when feeling stressed, start by prioritising your workload. There will always be deadlines and there is only so much you can achieve in a working day. Rank all the tasks in order of importance then start at the top of the list and work down.

Plan ahead
Create a work plan. By structuring your work you can reduce the feelings of panic that arise when there is too much to do and you are not sure how to proceed.

Set your own deadlines
An excellent way to meet deadlines is to set your own deadlines a few days earlier than necessary. By working to your own schedule you have time available if last minute changes are required.

Focus on one thing at a time
People with effective time management skills know the power of focusing on one issue at a time. By concentrating on the task at hand, rather than all the other things you have to do you, your mind will be clearer and you will actually get more done.

Delegate effectively
Learn how to delegate so that others give you what you need, when you need it. Make sure people have enough time to complete the work. By giving people tasks at an earlier date, you reduce their stress levels and make it easier for them to achieve your expectations.

Don’t be a slave to technology
Occasionally, turn off your mobile off and hold all calls when you are working on something that needs your full attention. Make sure you have a message bank on your mobile or someone to take messages on your behalf, then return all the calls once the task is finished. Don’t feel you need to spend the whole day answering emails. Sometimes they can wait so you can attend to more pressing issues.