5 ways to find more time

There are only so many hours in the day and when you’re a busy entrepreneur it can often feel like there simply isn’t enough time to get everything done.

So how can you make the most of the time you have to make sure you’re not selling yourself short?

1. Use technology

There are lots of new innovations which can help you save time even if they take a bit of effort to get to grips with at first. Don’t be tempted to just keep doing things a certain way because that is how you have always done it. The right IT services can can automate certain processes, helping you to become more productive and efficient, so take a look at what is out there.

It could also be worth reviewing your existing web presence to see if customers could be doing more online.

2. Travel less

Spending a lot of time on the road can seem like lost time when it comes to your business. If you can communicate effectively with a customer, partner or supplier on the phone or online, it will take less time than travelling to see them in person. While phone calls are more traditional, there are plenty of software options for teleconferencing, depending on what you need, including free options like Skype or Google Hangouts. 

If you must travel a long distance, consider going by train so you can work on the journey.

3. Communicate in the cloud

Cloud-based software makes it easier for you and your staff members to collaborate with each other. You can share files instantly and it is simple for people to make notes and comments. This kind of teamwork means there is less demand for lengthy meetings and that time in the meeting room can be kept to important business, without becoming sidetracked.

4. Set clear goals

If everyone in your business knows exactly what they are working towards and what their goals and targets are, they will be more efficient and productive. Give people (including yourself) clear deadlines for tasks so they are not tempted to put them off until later and focus on less important things.

5. Consider your staff structure

If your time is becoming tied up with admin and fielding calls, it may be time to expand your team or assess how much you’re delegating to other members of the team. Depending on your business growth forecast, you could consider hiring new staff to free up more time in your working day, or outsourcing some work, for example a virtual assistant. 

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