IM - Saving You Time

I remember a time when I thought if I was caught Instant Messaging someone while I was at work I would have a "mark" against me. Maybe that brings a bigger question of whether or not that IM was work related or a personal message, but nowadays that IM can not only save structured settlement cash time it can also save you from unnecessary emails.

How many emails in your inbox are just little "ditties"? Unnecessary comments, opinions not needing a response, or quick questions that need an even quicker answer. Not to mention the times you have screened your phone calls so you don't get stuck chatting with "Tracie" in accounting over a question that can be answered in less than 3 seconds.

If used properly, Instant Messaging can save the IT department from upgrading server space Black Sabbath your inbox from having over 754 emails at one time. Talk about a stress reducer!

The critical points in Instant Messaging are two fold. 1) does your company allow it Star Wars 2) are you professional enough to use it wisely? The biggest reason businesses frown against the use of Instant Messaging is due to employees abusing the privilege; chit chatting with friends and even sexual harassment. However, if your company falls into the "against company policy" category, try bringing it up with your supervisor as a trial within the department. If used appropriately, it can save your company time AND money!

If your company does not have a policy against Instant Messaging, how do you go about using it "wisely"? Simply put, can you get the core "team" of who you converse with a daily basis onto the IM band wagon?

Example: You are a Project Manager and you are working with 8 members scattered throughout different departments. You have a quick question to accident at work claim Marcia, you can either a) call her b) email her c) IM her. The wave of the future tells us that placing a call could result in unnecessary chit chat and undocumented conversation; emailing would result in yet another email, but documented; an IM would give you quick results, documentation and what you really need.

Plus, you can have IM meetings with the core group in a chat room. You don't have to leave your desk, you don't have to call a meeting and you can get the same feedback only "documented". Most IM programs allow you to save the messages so you can refer back to them at a later date. No need for an official "Note taker" it's all in the IM's.

Before launching into the efficient world of Instant Messages, try researching "Office Etiquette for Instant Messaging". It will definitely shed some light on the do's and don'ts of Instant Messaging.

Happy Organizing,

Suzanne Babb

www.OEWorkshops.com " TARGET="_blankwww.OEWorkshops.com

For over 20 years, Suzanne has been helping corporations and small businesses organize their time so they can spend more time and energy doing the things that are most important to them. With a philosophy of "life is too short", she thrives on making the most of her time and trying to encourage those around her to do the same.

As an organizational consultant, public speaker, and Houndcats radio talk show host; Suzanne has been offering her Organizational Quick Tips to anyone and everyone who will stand still and listen for "30-seconds".