1- Collaborate and cooperate
Colleagues will expect your work to be done on time, so be sure to avoid any delays. You’ll have the same expectations of them. To be safe, build extra time into the project time line to counteract unexpected snags, miscommunications or missed deadlines. If your presentation date is the 25th of the month, make sure you have everything scheduled for completion by the 23rd.
2- Avoid unnecessary follow-ups
If you pass the buck or delegate work to someone else, let it go unless it is your specific responsibility to oversee it. Too many people waste valuable time listening to or reading reports about someone else’s project. If your colleagues’ research or business responsibilities do not impact your day-to-day work, job performance or career goals, you should only express an interest by way of supportive conversation.
3- Cancel routine meetings
Determine if meetings are absolutely necessary. If they are, establish an agenda and stay on track — start and end on time. If your presence is not essential for the entire weekly operations review meeting, ask your boss privately if it might be appropriate for you to excuse yourself early.