Top 10 Time Management Strategies for Bookkeepers to Boost Productivity
Sep 02, 2024In today's dynamic financial landscape, bookkeepers play a pivotal role in ensuring the accuracy and efficiency of financial records. However, managing multiple tasks and deadlines can be challenging without practical time management skills. By refining these skills, bookkeepers can enhance their productivity and achieve a more balanced workload. Below are ten proven strategies to help bookkeepers optimize their time and streamline their daily operations.
- Prioritize Tasks Effectively
Bookkeepers should prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance. Techniques like the Eisenhower Matrix can help distinguish between functions needing immediate attention and those that can be scheduled for later.
- Implement Time Tracking Tools
Time tracking software such as Toggl or Harvest allows bookkeepers to monitor their time on various tasks. This insight helps identify inefficiencies and areas where time can be saved.
- Set Personal Boundaries
Establishing clear boundaries regarding work hours can minimize distractions. Limiting notifications from non-essential contacts during work hours helps maintain focus. One staff member with small children made a sign letting them know they could not enter when she was in a meeting. This is genius!
- Create Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Developing SOPs for repetitive tasks streamlines processes and reduces time spent figuring out how to execute them each time, leading to increased efficiency. We use Financial Cents, and having a good, standardized workflow documented has been critical when staff changes or goes on vacation.
- Utilize Project Management Software
Implementing project management tools helps organize tasks, set deadlines, and track progress. This ensures that responsibilities are managed effectively and deadlines are met. This is the one thing that will save you from having to remember annual tasks or tasks that are more random in nature.
- Schedule Breaks and Downtime
Taking regular breaks prevents burnout and improves overall productivity. Short breaks help refresh the mind and maintain concentration throughout the day. This tip works!!! I have paid attention to my watch to get off my chair and do a mini walk. Studies show that having 8,200 steps is minimal for health. 10k can seem too much if your workload is overwhelming, but you are more effective if you get away from the screen in short breaks throughout the day. Studies have shown that people who walk anywhere between 7,500 to 10,000 steps per day can improve blood sugar levels, lower blood pressure, and help improve symptoms of depression and anxiety.
- Plan Your Day in Advance
Spending a few minutes at the end of each day to plan the next day’s tasks leads to a more organized and productive start. This practice sets clear goals for the day. Do this each night before you sign off for the day to set yourself up for success the following day – and bonus— it helps you sleep better!
- Limit Multitasking
Focusing on one task at a time enhances efficiency and reduces errors. Multitasking often leads to decreased productivity and increased stress. Multitasking makes us more distractible and prone to mistakes. For example, individuals rated as high media multitaskers (number of hours using multiple devices simultaneously, such as watching TV while also using a smartphone or tablet) showed poorer attention on cognitive tasks. See this article from Lifespan by Jennifer Davis, PhD for more details.
- Stay Organized
Keeping financial records and documents well-organized saves time when searching for information. A systematic approach to filing significantly enhances efficiency.
- Continuous Learning and Adaptation
Staying updated with the latest bookkeeping practices and technologies helps bookkeepers find new ways to manage their time better. Regular training and professional development are key.
By adopting these time management strategies, bookkeepers can transform their work routines, resulting in higher efficiency and a more satisfying professional experience. With improved productivity, bookkeepers can better manage their workload, delivering exceptional service while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Don't miss these offerings from the Accountants Law Lab team!
Accountants Law Pod Podcast
A weekly podcast dedicated to helping bookkeepers, accountants, and attorneys stay up to date on financial best practices within the legal industry. Hosted by Lynda Artesani, Sarah Prevost, and Steve Libhart.
Modernize Your Law Firm: Transform Your Law Firm For The Future by Lynda Artesani
In today's rapidly evolving digital age, it's become crucial for law firms to modernize and adapt to stay ahead of the competition. With advancements in technology and a shift in client expectations, it's essential for law firms to embrace digital transformation to remain relevant and successful. But where should you start? In this book, Lynda outlines essential steps that your law firm needs to take to modernize and thrive in the digital age.
Do you want to join our private group? We have a large collection of videos that you can learn from, and we hold weekly meetings every Friday at 9 am PT/12 pm ET.
We would love to have you join our group.
Stay connected with news and updates!
Join our mailing list to receive the latest blog post and updates on what is happening at the Accountant's Law Lab.
Don't worry. Your information will not be shared.
We hate SPAM. We will never sell your information, for any reason.
