communication

It's no question that today technology has become both a blessing and a curse. We are talking especially about communication tools that helped us navigate difficult times and made room for a new way of work. Now, while some of these virtual meetings and calls can be vital for communication and collaboration, unnecessary interruptions can throw us off track, hampering our productivity and focus.
 

This is why mastering the art of managing unnecessary calls is a crucial skill.

The Proliferation of Unnecessary Calls:

The steady stream of incoming calls can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether it is your boss asking for a quick chat, or your colleagues wanting some of your time to give feedback on a recent decision, identifying unnecessary calls and understanding their impact on our workflow is the first step towards taking control of our time.

Not all calls hold the same weight. Learning to prioritize incoming calls based on urgency and importance allows us to allocate time more efficiently, ensuring we stay focused on high-priority tasks.

Setting Boundaries for Productivity:

Creating call boundaries is key to managing interruptions. This can be through communicating our availability by sharing our calendar with our team and setting designated call times where they can schedule the call directly whenever needed all while defining and clearing the agenda and the priority level. Also, leveraging voice notes wherever possible can save a lot of time and deliver messages more clearly to avoid possible async misunderstandings.

The Art of Delegating and Redirecting:

Sometimes, calls are better suited for others to handle and our presence isn't mandatory as we can always review the recording afterwards. Plus, delegating and redirecting calls within a team fosters a sense of collaboration and support. Trusting your colleagues to handle specific calls demonstrates that you value their expertise and contributions. This empowerment not only boosts team morale but also allows team members to develop their skills and take ownership of their responsibilities.

As we navigate the future world of work, it's essential to strike a balance between effective communication and maintaining productivity. By identifying unnecessary calls and setting boundaries we can minimize interruptions and make every meeting count.