According to a study by Easy-Panel, two out of three employees feel they waste too much time at work. Why? Small interruptions throughout the day that seem insignificant on their own but, when added together, lead to a significant loss of productivity.

For home-based virtual secretaries who handle continuous incoming calls, these disruptions are unavoidable. The constant flow of calls structures the day unpredictably. Naturally, these interruptions harm concentration and hinder productivity.

However, by adopting a few good work habits, you can save valuable time and stop watching it slip away!

1. Handle your most complex tasks in the morning

The first two hours of the morning are when motivation and concentration are at their peak.
Take advantage of this time for complex tasks, then move on to emails afterward.

2. Set time goals for certain tasks

Give yourself goals to complete within a specific time frame (20 or 30 minutes) and keep track of your actions throughout the day.
This introduces discipline into your workday, especially when working from home.

When you assign a fixed time to a task, you subconsciously push yourself to respect the deadline.

3. The “CAP Method”: for an organized inbox

To stay efficient, focus on one objective at a time.
Sorting and processing emails are two separate actions, which is why organizing your inbox properly is essential.

“C” for Classify
Sort your emails into two categories: those requiring an immediate answer and those to keep for later.

“A” for Action
Respond quickly to emails or tasks that require immediate attention.

“P” for Trash
Don’t drown in a flood of informational emails. Read them and delete them.

4. Review your results at the end of the week

It is essential to analyze what you’ve accomplished during the week.
On one hand, review which goals you reached and which weren’t met (number of inbound calls handled, rejected calls, etc.).
This gives you a precise understanding of what your work method allows you to achieve week after week.
Your telephone answering service must be optimal.

On the other hand, assess the number of hours actually spent working.
You’ll be able to adjust your work habits based on the ratio of goals achieved versus time spent.

5. A time for work, and a time for personal life

Speaking of working hours, it is crucial to clearly define your work time so it does not spill over into your private life.
Always maintain a predetermined work-life balance to avoid distraction and reduced efficiency.