The words ‘Time is Money’ are especially true in today’s fast-paced, modern world.

Everyone has the same number of hours in a day to work, play, nurture relationships and explore personal growth. So if you are a manager, leader or business owner whose people are struggling to meet deadlines, deliver projects or answer emails promptly, how long do you think they (or you) can continue this way?

When your people are scrambling, panicking and perhaps even burning out, are you losing business?

Perhaps it’s time you start thinking about the P word – PRODUCTIVITY. How productive are your employees? In other words, are your employees using their time effectively on tasks that generate more income for your company; or are they focused on putting out ‘fires’ to keep your business going without really adding any long-term value?

Here are 5 simple tips that you as an employer can implement in your firm to make your people manage their time better so they are more productive and able to do ‘more with less’.

Tip 1: Encourage them to take breaks

Taking scheduled breaks can help improve concentration and maintain a constant level of performance. It may sound counter-intuitive but research has proved that working without breaks can lead to a decline in performance and even burn-out.

Tip 2: Create a To-do/Priority task list template

Many people work better if they have a list of items to work against. The act of ticking tasks off can be very motivating. Create a spreadsheet for your team where they can list their tasks for the day or week. The tasks can be listed by priority, deadline or complexity. The list will help your team plan their time better and maintain focus so they are in ‘achievement’ mode rather than ‘fire-fighting’ mode. Don’t forget to schedule in break time (Tip 1)!

Tip 3: Provide opportunities to eat healthy and exercise

A healthy diet and regular exercise can go a long way towards helping you (and your people) maintain their physical and mental well-being. This often translates into improved concentration, better memory and greater focus. Outcome – more productive people! Talk to your team about eating well, exercising and getting enough sleep. If your firm provides a canteen/cafeteria, make sure they are served wholesome food rather than junk. If you cannot afford to provide an in-house gym, encourage your team to join one on their own, or practice other forms of physical exercise like Yoga.

Tip 4: Make ‘morning huddles’ a daily habit

At the start of each day, huddle with your team for about 10 minutes and go over the tasks and goals for the day. Make sure you stick to the agenda and don’t overshoot the time limit. A huddle can help ensure that everyone is on the same page; which can avoid rework, confusion and productivity loss later. Additionally, a team that meets regularly with its manager is more motivated and enthusiastic because they know that their manager cares about their outcomes and achievements.

Tip 5: Use technology!

This one is our favourite! There are so many options when it comes to productivity tools, apps and software. Why not scout around and install the ones that meet your needs (many are free!)? From list-making apps and time tracking software to email management tools and website blocking (social media!) extensions – technology is available to help you use your time effectively, organise your life better and improve your productivity and efficiency. Why not take advantage of it for yourself and your team?