The most common complaint by harried employees
is interruptions. Being interrupted is a way of saying that other people with
other priorities are stealing your time. Permit it and you make them the master
of your time. We suggest these:
- During quiet hours shut your door. Being
accessible does not mean an “open door policy.” Being accessible
means giving your full attention and you cannot do that if you do not become
a master of timing.
- Establish and communicate times for visitors.
Welcome them at times and say “no” at other times.
- Arrange meetings away from your office
so you can leave if need be.
- Do not feel that all interaction must
begin and end with “small talk.” A smile will do.
- Learn to ask people to make their points.
- Don’t invite casual visitors to sit
down and stay.
- When interrupted ask the person how much
time they have.
- If you would like to be interrupted less,
then interrupt others less, or not at all.
