A keen sense of organisation is an important asset to possess in all walks of life. Helping to keep personal stress levels to a minimum, being organised and ready for any eventuality can make a huge difference. Nowhere is this more relevant than in the work place. If you are a freelancer, the importance is magnified still further, as how organised you are in your day to day activities has a bearing on your overall success. Fortunately, there are a number of steps you can take to ensure you are always highly organised and make the most of your freelance life.
Keep It Simple.
When you are deep into a project, working feverishly to complete it before tackling your next set of assignments, it is easy to forget to keep an eye on the simple things. Step back from your work for a moment and take a look at your workspace. A cluttered, disorganised desk, covered with papers and files lying askew, will only add to the sense of panic that may be building in your mind with project deadlines looming on the horizon. Ensuring your workspace is kept neat and tidy while working has a calming effect on your psyche; the more relaxed and organised you feel, the more efficient your work will undoubtedly be.
Be Prepared.
As one work day draws to a close, so preparations for the next should begin. Starting each day fresh and ready for the work ahead is an important aspect of being highly organised in your approach. Make sure any files that you have used are put back where they came from at the end of every work day, therefore eliminating any possible time lost searching for them the next time they are needed. The upkeep of a good filing system, with all folders neatly labelled as to their contents, can save a lot of unnecessary stress and time-wasting. It also goes a long way in impressing clients if you can quickly lay your hands on notes or files when required, rather than offering to call them back when you have finally located them.
Take Note.
A notebook should be a constant and reassuring presence during your life as a freelancer. Whether it be at a meeting with a client or while working on a project, the taking of notes takes a lot of pressure off you in terms of remembering various pieces of information. Relying on your memory can be a dangerous thing and only serves to clutter your mind unnecessarily. Ensuring you take note of things such as telephone numbers, meeting dates and deadlines leaves you free to concentrate on the work itself, without having the constant worry of forgetting vital information.
As a freelancer, you are solely responsible for your success or failure. Consequently, taking a more organised approach to your work can have a massive impact on how well you do. The addition of a few simple routines to your day will help both you and your freelance business become more efficient and organised.
Post by Tony, a UK based blogger for Brookson – IT contractor accountants