In recent weeks I’ve begun to see the importance of responding to emails and phone calls in a timely manner.

I am the sort of person who, when a question is asked, thinks it has to be answered straight away.

• Multi tasking doesn’t work for me; I need to switch gears and this can take a moment or two.
• As an introvert, I need processing time.
• There may be a million things that need to be done and right now is not a good time.

Sometimes it’s not even a question and doesn’t require an answer! It’s a way to connect and ask for help. It’s a rant or a vent or an attempt to push a problem on to me that’s actually not my problem.

I’m also the sort of person who quietly gets things done, so quietly that my efforts are often not noticed.

• I’m practical – get it done and it’s done.
• I’m fast & efficient, especially when I know what you want.
• I can be invisible, quietly doing what needs to be done.

To add to it all, I put it out of my mind when it’s done. I know I’ve done it, I just forget to tell the other.

Apart from being polite and courteous responding is:

• Acknowledgement – it’s saying “I hear you & I understand your request.”
• Action – it demonstrates something is happening, or if not, then why not.
• Letting others know where I’m at.

Providing a timely update gets everyone on the same page.

It’s not just about responding in a timely manner, it’s about communication.

Not responding:

• Leaves people in the dark.
• Leads to assumptions that may or may not be true.
• Can cause confusion, anger and/or mixed messages.

Ultimately it puts undue pressure where there actually may be none.

Connect, respond, and let people know where you’re at so they know what they need to do. A timely response can be as simple as:

• Give me a minute and you will have my full attention.
• Thanks for your contact I can give you a full answer……(at  this time, when X has occurred)
• Wow, that must be really …… (frustrating, annoying, exciting, tiring)
• Thanks for the reminder, I’ll get onto that.
• I’m waiting on….. and will follow up.

We live in a world that wants instant answers but what if responding in a timely manner is really about connection and being of service? That’s been the difference for me. Now there’s no pressure. Instead, there’s a desire to make a difference, to be part of the team and to be part of the outcome.

Inundated by all the requests and responses needed? Contact me to find out how working with a life coach can help you take charge of your time and enjoy the tasks you’ve said yes to.