Dan Pollard
Tradespeople, the clock is ticking.
If you aren’t managing your time effectively in the trades industry, you’re probably missing out on money, biting off more work than you can chew, and building up a bucket-load of stress.
To add to that, you might be frustrating your customers as your quality, customer service, and timekeeping take a hit.
For electricians, plumbers, and trades business owners, managing time effectively is not just about getting to the next job on schedule; it’s about building a reputation for reliability, ensuring quality workmanship, and maximising profitability.
But how do you do it?
Strategies for Effective Time Management
In this article, we breakdown tactics you can use in your trades business to get on top of your day-to-day and use your time effectively.
Starting with planning out your day…
Prioritise Your Tasks
Start each day with a clear plan.
Ask yourself, ‘What are the most important tasks I have to deal with?’ - and start with those.
If you’re not sure where to start, then consider using a simple yet effective prioritisation method like the Eisenhower Box to categorise tasks by urgency and importance.
Embrace Technology
Leverage job management software like Fergus to streamline scheduling, invoicing, and communication.
Tools like these can save precious hours every week, allowing you to focus on the work that matters most.
Don’t just take our word for it!
Learn how Paul saved 15 hours a week of admin time, using Fergus.
Delegate Wisely
Develop an understanding of the strengths (and weakness) of your staff and trust them with responsibility.
Trusting your team to handle aspects of the job not only empowers them but also frees you up to focus on growth and customer engagement.
If you don’t have the right team at your disposal, this may mean recognising the right time to hire skilled staff either out on the tools or in the office.
Avoid Multitasking
While it might seem efficient, multitasking can lead to mistakes and half-finished jobs.
Focus on one task at a time to ensure it’s done right the first time.
Set Realistic Deadlines
Overpromising on timelines can lead to stress and rushed work.
Set realistic deadlines that allow for high-quality work and account for potential setbacks.
Implementing Time Management in Your Daily Routine
Start with a Solid Morning Routine
Time management is about discipline, meaning you must start your day right, every day.
Whether it’s reviewing the day’s jobs over coffee or a quick team huddle, find a routine that energises you for the day ahead.
Use Time Blocks
Divide your workday into blocks of time dedicated to specific tasks or types of work.
This way, you will avoid becoming overwhelmed with the tasks at hand, and feel a sense of achievement by ticking off tasks throughout the day.
Limit Distractions
Identify what commonly interrupts your workflow and take steps to minimise these distractions.
This might mean setting specific times to check emails or turning off phone notifications during critical work periods.
Reflect and Adjust
At the end of each day, take a moment to reflect on what went well and what didn’t.
Use this insight to adjust your approach for the next day.
The Role of Breaks
Never underestimate the power of a break.
Regular short breaks throughout the day can prevent burnout and keep you sharp.
Encourage your team to take breaks too — a rested worker is a productive worker.
Start Mastering Your Time
Ironically, time management is a skill that can take time itself to master. But stick at it, and the results in your business and personal life will speak for themselves.
By prioritising tasks, delegating wisely, and setting realistic deadlines, tradespeople can take control of their time and their business.
By using job management software, you can really free up your admin time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your business.
To start freeing up your day-to-day, and finding out the many other features Fergus has too offer, why not try out our software, free of charge?
