How to Deal with Backlog

If you have not been managing your time efficiently to this point then the chances are that you may have a huge backlog of work to catch up on, but how do you catch up when there is constantly more work coming in? In this article we give you a few tips for effective time management and overcoming backlog.

Overcoming Backlog and Beginning Effective Time Management Starts with a Line

Draw an imaginary line in time, from this point on you will manage your time effectively and you will not allow any more backlogs to occur. This means that while overcoming the backlog you will also be keeping up with all new work that comes in.

Overcoming Backlog Requires Organization

Overcoming backlog and effective time management requires organization. Begin by cleaning your desk and office and organizing all your paperwork. As your organize take note of the work that you need to catch up on and categorize this work. Get your filing systems in order and discard any unnecessary items. Once your office and desk are neat and in order you will feel a lot more able to handle the backlog.

Overcoming Backlog with a To-Do List

Once you have organized your desk and seen what work is actually outstanding and needs to be done prepare a to-do list of all the backlog work. Also create a to-do list of what needs to be done today (current work). Start with the biggest and most important task and prioritize all tasks on both lists. Work through each item one at a time and mark them off your list as you do them. Fit backlog work around work that needs to be done, while ensuring that all work that needs to be done today gets done and that you gradually reduce your backlog pile.

Overcoming Backlog May Mean Getting Help

Overcoming backlog and effective time management may mean getting additional help – delegating tasks or hiring additional temp staff. Look at what tasks you have that someone else could do for you as effectively or even more effectively then you and then delegate some of these tasks so you have more time to overcome your backlog.

Overcoming Backlog Requires Focus

Overcoming backlog and effective time management requires focus and therefore you should try as far as possible to minimize interruptions – get your secretary or answering machine to take calls, turn off your email program and put up a “Do not Disturb” sign while you concentrate on getting your work done.

In conclusion, overcoming backlog begins by setting an imaginary line in time from which point on you will overcome backlog and manage your time effectively, not allowing any further backlog to occur. Start by organizing your work area and then create a list of the work you need to get done. If necessary find help in the form of delegation or hiring temp staff.