How many of you worked this weekend? How many of you worked beyond your ‘normal’ working hours last week and expect to do the same this week? Overwork seems to be the current lot of today’s travel advisor. So how can you maximise the work you can get done in fewer hours?
It might have won an Oscar, but ‘Everything, everywhere, all at once’ could very well be the title of every travel advisor’s current to do list. Here, we compile some top tips to help you be more productive, save time, and enjoy your work.
Step 1: Dream big, but set strong boundaries
‘No’ does not come easily to your average travel advisor, but if you don’t say no, the work will continue to come.
Focus on what your end game is and prioritise accordingly.
According to Johann Hari’s book ‘Stolen Focus’, setting boundaries can also help you avoid burnout and keep your focus sharp. So don’t be afraid to say no to requests that don’t align with your priorities or schedule.
Step 2: Limit the distractions
Constant interruptions can lead to a decrease in productivity and creativity, says Hari.
So consider scheduling a time everyday when you turn off all your notifications so that you’re not constantly distracted by the endless stream of emails or messages from clients, suppliers or colleagues. It’s not forever. It’s just so you can actually finish a task.
Step 3: Use technology to your advantage
Automate repetitive tasks and use the robots before they use us. There are plenty of apps out there that can help you manage your time, track your expenses, even connect other apps for you. It’s actually amazing what AI and a good CRM can do. So, instead of wasting time on manual tasks, let technology do the heavy lifting for you.
Step 4: Use templates
Save time on email and document creation by using templates. Create templates for common emails, proposals, and contracts, and customise them as needed for each client. This will save you time and ensure that you’re communicating consistently and professionally with all clients.
Step 5: Take breaks
This may seem counterintuitive, but taking breaks can actually make you more productive. When you’re working long hours, it’s easy to get burnt out and lose focus. Taking short breaks throughout the day can help you recharge and stay on task.
According to Hari, taking regular breaks can also help you avoid decision fatigue, which can occur when you’re making too many decisions without a break. So, take a few minutes to stretch, walk around the block, or grab a cup of coffee. Your brain will thank you.
Some people swear by the Pomodoro Technique, which is a time management method that involves working in focused 25-minute increments, followed by a short break. This technique can help you stay focused and productive by breaking your workday into manageable chunks.
Remember, saving time doesn’t have to be boring or dull. By implementing these steps, you’ll have more time to do what you love – exploring new destinations, trying new foods, and making travel dreams come true for your clients.