Color coding means better time management in business and sales

Are you so engrossed in making sales phone calls or putting out work-related fires that you never seem to get anything else done? Having trouble meeting your business goals or sales quotas? Do you feel like you are missing out on possible fun parts of your life outside of work? Looking for a better way to manage your time while growing your business? Can you open your mind to the possibilities of success using a powerful tool that is easy to implement?

If you answer “yes” to any of those questions, it’s time for you to use a time management system that includes color codes to ensure you have a good balance of activities. It’s time for you to update your typical work calendar to include something from each of the color categories below.

• Green (the color of money) is for key activities that lead to current income. As a sales professional, this would include all prospecting activities and customer contacts. When you look at your work calendar, this should be the majority of your day.
• Red (semaphore) is for administrative activities such as submission, proposal writing, service calls, and database entries. Time this for a slow period during your typical day so it doesn’t build up and doesn’t interfere with reaching the green.
• Blue (think water and beaches) are necessary relaxation activities that include vacations, as well as important moments with family and friends. Doing a hobby, exercising, or planning a little fun during the week will help reduce stress and keep you motivated.
• Orange (a bright future) includes activities that lead to long-term results, such as career goal planning, sales conferences, advanced degrees or certifications, and additional learning in your industry. Some of this can also be fun depending on where you go or who you meet; it is a real requirement if you want to be successful in sales.

Use the suggested color codes to update your current work calendar and make sure to include something from each category in your week. Although most of your work will be green and red is necessary, using the color system will help you put the right balance in your life as you continue to grow your business. Knowing that you are achieving more blue and orange elements will keep you motivated at work and well balanced in the professional and personal aspects of your life.