NFIB

Avoiding Unwanted Interruptions to Your Business Day
04/ 03/ 2002


If you work at home, you've probably had trouble with unscheduled interruptions that cut into your work time. Some can't be avoided, such as the unexpected illness of a child or the rare thunderstorm that forces you to unplug your computer. But when family or friends insist on dropping in to see you at any time of the day, your productivity can suffer. This may result in loss of income, and increased frustration levels. In today's Workshop, contributor Jeff Moses offers a few tips on how to politely, yet firmly, reclaim your time.

-- Many times people drop in without considering that their visit is an interruption. I've had people come over in the middle of the afternoon, pull me away from my computer, and ask me to go out for an ice cream with them. "I'm working," I say. They just wave their hand, as though what I said was a joke. When something like this happens, people need to be instructed about your way of life. Say something to them along this line: "If I were working at even at a minimum-wage job flipping burgers, you wouldn't even consider dropping in on me. You would understand that I was at work, and had my job to do. It's important for you to understand that even though I'm at home, this is my job. I am at work. I enjoy seeing you, but I simply can't take time during the day to visit."

-- Always encourage people to call before they drop in. It's a lot easier to explain that you're working when they're on the phone than when they're at the front door expecting to be invited in for a cup of coffee.

-- Some people just won't get the message, no matter how often you tell them. In such cases, there will inevitably come a time when you'll have to be firm with them. They'll arrive at your front door and you'll simply have to say, "I'm sorry, you should have called. I'm busy at work, and don't have time to visit." Then you have to tell them goodbye and close the door. This can be difficult and might even cost you a friendship. But ask yourself what kind of friend would continue to do this even after you have repeatedly requested them not to do so? Such a person is treating you poorly, and your income shouldn't suffer because of their thoughtlessness.

-- You'll also need to train people who insist on calling you every day for a "little" chat. Callers can be just as time consuming as visitors. Remember, you're AT WORK. Don't let them distract you unduly. Even a ten-minute phone conversation can take away your valuable momentum.

workshop.managing.wed
3.26.1999

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