Wrapping up 2016
‘Tis the silly season again and hasn’t it come quickly. It feels like only yesterday I was getting prepared for the last team Christmas party and wrapping business up for 2015.
For me as Office Manager of a very busy Recruitment and HR Consulting business this is an exciting and busy time of year. We have client lunches/drinks, training sessions, Kris Kringle, team parties, client gifts to purchase, cleaning the office and preparing plans and budgets for 2017.
So how do I keep organised and under control during this time? It’s not easy but here are some tips that I find useful.
- Don’t over think and worry about the mile-long list – I find making a list of everything that needs to be done is helpful but remember to focus on one task at a time. If you think about how much needs to be done you will spend more time worrying than actually completing the tasks at hand.
- Ask for input from others – As an example, you have to think about what type of party to organise for the office but can’t think of any new and exciting ideas. Don’t be afraid to ask other team members and brainstorm some ideas. You’re not a Party Planner and no one expects you to be.
- Take some time for yourself and have a break – No matter how busy you are, you will perform much better if you have some breaks throughout the day to rejuvenate. When you get back to work you will look at things with fresh eyes.
- Ask for help – There is nothing wrong with asking for help if needed. If you have hit a brick wall or feel time is slipping away from you, communicate your concerns to your boss.
- Don’t over commit – this goes for both work and personal commitments. You are not a super hero and can’t do everything, so prioritise your commitments and I am sure you will be much more relaxed.
So as I go back to my own mile long list I keep reminding myself that in a few weeks I will have some time off work to spend with the people closest to me and of course some time for myself to get reenergised. Bring on 2017!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the team at Selection Partners.
Written by Sarah Bennett – Resourcer and Office Manager of Selection Partners
