As a coworking office regular, you’re no stranger to the hum of productivity and the buzz of networking opportunities. But let’s face it – staying focused and managing your time effectively can be a challenge in these vibrant spaces. With people coming and going, meetings and events happening, and the temptation to mingle and socialize, it’s easy to get sidetracked. Fear not, friend! Here are some time management tips tailored specifically for coworking office warriors like yourself.
Set Your Goals and Priorities for Time Management
Before you dive into your workday, take a few minutes to set clear goals and priorities. What needs to get done? What are your top tasks? Write them down and keep them visible. This will help you stay focused on what’s important and avoid distractions. Consider using the Eisenhower Matrix to categorize tasks into urgent vs. important and focus on the most critical ones first.
Creating a Schedule and Sticking to it is a Good Time Management Tip
Coworking offices can be unpredictable, but that doesn’t mean you can’t plan your day. Create a schedule that includes dedicated blocks of time for work, breaks, and networking. Set reminders and alerts to keep yourself on track. Don’t be afraid to say no to non-essential meetings or events that can derail your productivity.
Use Time-Tracking Tools for Time Management
Time-tracking tools like Toggl, Harvest, or RescueTime can help you understand how you spend your time in the coworking space. Identify time-wasting habits and optimize your workflow. These tools can also help you generate invoices or reports, making it easier to bill clients or track project progress.
Minimize Distractions
Coworking offices can be distracting, but there are ways to minimize interruptions. Consider using noise-cancelling headphones or finding a quiet spot to focus. You can also set boundaries with fellow coworkers, letting them know when you’re available for chat and when you need to concentrate.
Take Breaks and Move Your Body
It’s easy to get sucked into your work and forget to take breaks. However, taking short breaks can boost your productivity and creativity. Use your breaks to stretch, move your body, or meditate. Many coworking offices offer wellness programs or fitness rooms – take advantage of them! This will definitely help to manage your time.
Leverage Coworking Office Amenities
Coworking offices often offer a range of amenities, from high-speed internet to printing and meeting rooms. Use these perks to streamline your workflow and save time. Many coworking spaces also offer events and workshops – attend ones that align with your interests and professional goals.
Establish a Routine to Help you with Time Management.
Establishing a routine can help you stay on track and make the most of your coworking experience. Experiment with different schedules and habits until you find what works best for you. Whether you’re a morning person or a night owl, find a routine that suits your productivity style.
Stay Organized
Staying organized is crucial in a coworking environment. Keep your belongings tidy, and consider using a task management tool like Trello or Asana to keep track of your projects and deadlines. This will help you stay focused and avoid wasting time searching for misplaced items or information.
Set Boundaries with Networking
While networking is a key benefit of coworking offices, it can also be a distraction. Set boundaries around your networking activities, and prioritize meaningful connections over casual chats. Attend events and join groups that align with your professional goals, and be intentional about following up with new contacts.
Review and Adjust
Finally, take time to review your progress and adjust your strategy as needed. Reflect on what’s working and what’s not, and make changes to optimize your productivity and workflow. By regularly evaluating your time management strategy, you’ll be able to adapt to the changing coworking landscape and achieve your goals.
By implementing these time management tips, you’ll be able to thrive in the coworking office environment and achieve your professional goals. Happy coworking!
Need a Great Coworking Office?
Red Oak offers two convenient locations in downtown Manchester for all your office needs. Our spaces at 66 Hanover Street feature a combination of open plan coworking offices and private office spaces. Parking options abound in this area and we offer a discount to our coworking clients at the Hanover Street Parking Garage. Free Wi-Fi, a business center, complimentary housekeeping and a shared kitchen are amenities that our clients love.
At our Office Suites located at 409 Elm Street our clients enjoy private lockable office suites, team suites and many amenities. Parking, Wi-Fi and Housekeeping are Free here. Enjoy a receptionist greeter for your business and a copy center.
If you’re interested in learning more, schedule a tour today and see if Red Oak Coworking Offices is the right fit for you.
