My goal as Church Business Administrator is not to work harder but to work smarter! It ‘s a common misconception to think since you have so much on your plate, that you have to work harder and longer.
There are just not enough hours in the day to accomplish what i have to do! I come in early and stay late too many times a week. During the day my office is a revolving door, the phone calls pour in, people stop by, i have meetings all day, the staff have needs from me all day, deadlines are creeping up, and it’s a zoo!
As an Administrative Pastor i want to be available to my staff but it is difficult to manage my time with so many interruptions. I’ll be sitting in my office meeting with someone and 3 people stop by and ask me questions and i get 4 phone calls. I can’t really focus on the person i am meeting with.There are days i am constantly busy but accomplish little!
Here are some ways i have found to minimize interruptions and have a productive day as well.
- Close your door when you meet with someone. That lets them know you are focused on what they have to discuss with you. It also creates a more confidential setting for both people. The meeting runs smoother without so many interruptions and a lot can be accomplished.
- When you have a deadline project, place your phone on DO NOT DISTURB and close the door at the same time. It’s not rude to your staff and allows you to concentrate and finish the task. Let your secretary or assistant know you will be out of pocket for a while so she can field calls and drop ins for you.
- Coming in early to work without people there to interrupt is OK but then don’t stay late too! Take the afternoon off a little early and focus on personal issues you may have. You can work long hard hours or regular productive hours! You need rest!
- Take your work to another location around the church. If you have wi-fi set up you could find a room out of the beat and path and really get to work on things! Try a prayer room or conference room in the church.
- Create “To Do” lists either on paper or by email. I keep a note pad with me all the time everywhere i go. When things pop into my head i write them down or better yet i email them to myself at the office. That way the next day as i check email i get the to do task! Working smarter is having a plan and goal and sticking with it.
Remember it will be there when you get back the next day so don’t think you have to cram it all in one days worth. Slow down, focus, use lists, delegate, concentrate, and get it done!
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