Whether you realize it or not, you probably have an established system for how you do repetitive tasks in your work. You have a system for how you get your day started, triage your email inbox, update your executive on changing priorities, and more. You have systems for ordering supplies, planning events, and organizing travel plans. Systems are one of the best methods for keeping yourself organized in your job and beyond!
Systems are ordered and proven processes that save you time, effort, and unnecessary stress. They are a set of instructions that create structure or govern actions. They make behaviors automatic, so you don’t have to think about them. Effective systems are documentable, sharable, and repeatable – so they help you deliver the same results over and over again.
If you don’t have good systems in place or you feel like your systems may not be working for you as successfully as you’d like them to, that’s a signal to slow down, document how you’re currently doing it, and begin troubleshooting where you want things to work or flow more smoothly.
Start by writing your system down step by step. Then identify which segments are working well and which need help. Ask a colleague to brainstorm with you if need be. Test out your modifications and see if they work. If so, update your documented system. If not, keep trying things until you find a solution that is more effective.
Systems are at the heart of success as an administrative professional because they enable you to provide consistent service, gain credibility, establish trust, and build confidence with those you support. Systems are also key in navigating change – both expected and unexpected – and help you course-correct more adeptly. They can also provide great relief when someone else has to fill in for you.
This week, we’re explaining the importance of creating organizational systems, and how to make them work for you.
I love systems because they help me create calm from the chaos and provide a valuable safety net in many areas of my life. I encourage you to think about the systems you have in place, how they’re working for you, and what you can do to systematize additional areas of your work. I think you’ll like the results!
Supporting Your Administrative Success,
Julie
P.S. Procedures are at the heart of creating good systems. Join me on Friday, April 1 for this Business Management Daily Webinar.
P.P.S. April 1 kicks off Admin Appreciation Month, and we’ll be offering lots of free training and resources, including a free webinar on April 6, a five-day challenge, and lots of events from our partners around the world. Stay tuned to our Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn pages for more information.
