Depending on who you talk to, multitasking can be a way to get more things done, or a way to get more things done poorly. According to Kevin Daum of Inc. magazine, multitasking is 
counterproductive because the tasks that you may accomplish are unlikely to be of the best quality. Daum considers the risk of making mistakes too high, and focus should be on one priority task at a time.
However, multitasking is a necessary reality in today’s busy corporate world. Constant connection to the internet via smartphones and tablets mean the temptation is always present to check email, texts, or social media no matter where we are or what we are doing. Savvy marketers exploit this remote internet access phenomenon and push information through channels that are more easily used while on the go, such as mini videos or other visual advertisements.
Ann Bachrach, author of the book “Excuses Don’t Count; Results Rule!” emphasizes the need to maintain a detailed calendar. With a lot going on, you must be aware of looming deadlines or events that you need to plan time to prepare for. Too many tasks increase the risk of missing a deadline, an important appointment, or a critical business meeting. Note everything on a calendar so that you can see, at a glance, your commitments.
- The American Management Association recommends increasing your tasks incrementally. For example, if you start a new job or a new project, expect a learning curve. You will become quicker at each task as you gain experience. Then, once you are comfortable and up to speed, add an additional task, and so on. Monitor how long each task takes so that you can accurately gauge what you need to get done with the time available.
- Take a break. Multitasking is stressful, and too much can lead to burnout. Take regular breaks and plan time for breaks in your schedule. A heavy workload may be completed quicker if you take an hour break to unwind and return refreshed to the task.
- For tasks that you do repeatedly, find ways to make them easier. Preparing for a task takes time investment up front, but it will save you time and mistakes in the long run. For example, create computer templates, keep paperwork or equipment at hand and well-organized.
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