How do you manage competing demands on your time?

The important thing is to have a realistic schedule, as uncomplicated as it can possibly be. List an outline, then the a, b, c under it. Make sure you do have buffer time included.

From my point of view, establishing a proper "chain of command" helps a lot. For example, if you work for several C-Suite executives, whose requirements come first? I always prefer to look at it from a business impact point of view. Which one of the tasks at hand will have a direct impact on the business? Those are the tasks I try and see to first. Secondly, separating the tasks between 'Important' and 'Urgent' can help with figuring out where to start with competing demands. E.g. A task from the CFO may be important, but not urgent and can therefore shift lower on your list of priorities.

Set a clear schedule or list of tasks and goals, Prioritize the most important and time-sensitive. Set time limits for each goal. Do not overload yourself with new tasks. Delegate tasks if possible and take breaks. It is very important to seek support when needed. And always practice self-care techniques to maintain you mental well-being.

Before logging off plan for the next day, If you like myself working from home. Make notes the night before and stick to them. Being in Supply Chain something else is always more important, Ive added extra time to everything I do to make room for the more important things that may arise. Be on time or half hour earlier if you can. Making notes ensures that I do not miss or forget anything.

To manage competing demands on your time: 1. Prioritize tasks using methods like the Eisenhower Matrix. 2. Set clear goals to align your efforts. 3. Use time blocking to allocate focused time for different tasks. 4. Create a to-do list, prioritizing high-impact items. 5. Delegate or outsource tasks when possible. 6. Learn to say no to non-priority commitments. 7. Batch similar tasks to minimize context switching. 8. Utilize productivity tools and techniques. 9. Establish boundaries for work-life balance. 10. Regularly review and adjust your time management strategy. 11. Prioritize self-care and seek support when needed. 12. Stay flexible to adapt to unexpected disruptions.

Have a chalk chart that every executive can chart their whereabouts during the day. People arrive and leave at different times throughout the day, and it is important to know how to locate them. Of course, you will have all their phone numbers handy in case you need to give them a quick chat to advise them on something unexpected or new that happens.

Positive mindset all the time. All task and ideas share with your team is more important. And always try to recognize once a week one staff member . For business feedback and ad is more important in task as well. Clear communication with clients , staff and management. Work finish before deadline is very important keep you more positive.

Always under promise and over deliver. If your workload is high, don't be specific about a time of expectation. Be clear about what you're expecting and needing in order to process your part of the work. If there are interruptions, disruptions, or mishaps, be honest and clear about what you think the delay will be, don't delay on telling them there has been a bump in workflow.

As an EA, I met with my boss every morning to go over their priorities for the day and this afforded me the time to plan out my time and day. It allowed by clear communication on both sides.

Open and transparent communication is vital. Let colleagues, clients, or team members know your availability and priorities. Effective communication prevents misunderstandings and sets expectations.

When the Admisnistrative personnel fails to plan, as the saying goes, they plan to fail. Evidence based strategies should be used in implementing or executing goals, objectives. This plans are expected to be made with set goals, and several required objectives in addressing the needs, goals or filling the gaps. It will be a fatal error to just work blindly without first setting an expected end. How, When, Who, Where and Why should be answered in planning. Such plans should be SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Reliable and Time-Bound)

Planning is a key strategy. Use tools like calendars, to-do lists, or project management software to outline tasks and allocate time. Planning allows you to visualize your schedule and identify potential conflicts.

Once you know what is expected of you as an EA, you know your job better than anyone. In order to prioritize and focus, the best way is to build the level of trust with your superior and they should know when they give you a task it will be done instead of micro-managing you. This eliminates delays in getting a task job done if you are not constantly interrupted. They would not have hired you if you did not have the skills to do that job.

Prioritization is about identifying high-impact tasks and addressing them first. Focus your energy and time on what matters most to achieve meaningful results amidst competing demands.

Administrative professionals often face a multitude of tasks, from scheduling meetings and maintaining records to responding to emails and coordinating office logistics. Luckily I am blessed and i overcome workload by my organizational skills, an adept use of technology, keeping attention to details and the ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities.

Regularly review your progress and adjust your plan as needed. Flexibility is crucial when unexpected demands arise. Adapt to changing priorities while maintaining your core objectives.

The Administrative officer must learn how to calculate Strength, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats SWOT analysis of projections. This will make decision making a 'cake-walk'.

I have found with 9 executives, at times, doing things in the order its received is appropriate. I always communicate this and provide a time for completion and response.

Know what your strengths are. Know where you're faster or better and priorities those tasks if needed so that they can be completed first and leave you open for where your weaknesses come into play. If you're slow at proofreading but faster at typing or data entry, do the faster things first if possible and get those tasks DONE and off your workload.