101 Ways to Improve Customer Service: Training, Tools, Tips, and Techniques

Chapter 49. To Do or Not to Do: To-Do Lists

Individual

Staying organized can help tremendously in a job that relies on time management and information accessibility. People often rely on to-do lists to keep themselves organized and efficient. However, for a to-do list to be effective, you may need to follow some simple guidelines.

Actions

• Make using a to-do list a habit. Don’t skip even one day, or you’ll end up disturbing the routine.

• Put only important items on the list. Putting routine tasks on the list is counterproductive when it gives the impression that you have too much to accomplish.

• Place the items in priority order (A = must do, B = should do, C = nice to do) and then rank each item within the category in order of importance.

• Check off items on the list during the day. This helps you feel that you are accomplishing things and can help reduce stress.

• Rewrite the list when it becomes messy or illegible from notes or checking off items. It will become shorter, and you’ll feel that you are getting things done!

• Keep the list somewhere you can see it or access it easily.

• Use online software, such as Outlook, that can help you follow up with flags and color coding.

• Coordinate your to-do list with a datebook, keeping all information on only one calendar.