One of the scarcest resources for leaders in higher education is time. At any given moment, we are usually balancing, at the least, something that needs to be done immediately, something that someone else is waiting for, an upcoming meeting, and several urgent emails. That doesn’t even count making steps toward the important goals that keep sliding to the back burner.
According to Microsoft Education, time management means that a leader “uses his or her time effectively and efficiently; concentrates his or her efforts on the most important priorities; and adeptly handles several tasks at once.” If you haven’t checked out their competency model for education leaders, it’s worth a visit. The time management description includes questions for self-reflection and applicant interviews, a bibliography, and suggested development activities to include on a professional development plan. Here’s an example of self-assessment questions:
- When reviewing my daily and weekly schedule, do I allot ample time for the important and balance it with the urgent?
- What future needs and events must I incorporate now into my long range plan?
- Am I committed to saying “no” to extraneous requests or to asking the requester to choose what they would like me to cancel or delay in favor of their request?
- Am I committed to staying on track with my schedule, cutting conversations or tasks short where necessary to move on?
- Am I scheduling my time too tightly, not providing opportunity for personal interaction with others?
- What tasks can I delegate to someone else?
The Chronicle of Higher Education published an essay focused on time management for new professors. It had some useful tips for all of us, including:
- Be strategic about accepting committee work. Consider checking with your department head or a senior faculty member before accepting committee roles. In addition to having someone who can help protect your time, it also allows you breathing room to consider the request.
- Make time to write (or address other back burner items). Break the task into small steps and schedule them in your planner. If possible, give yourself due dates such as presenting the concept to the leadership team at the spring retreat.
- Develop time management go-to tricks. The article described his strategies for course prep. What tasks do you do often, and what shortcuts can you use routinely?
- Prioritize early and often. Use some form of planner and include time for yourself, lunch with colleagues, and other activities that are flexible, but important. For example, I usually spend the last few minutes of each day reviewing my plans for tomorrow.
What do you do that helps you manage your time effectively?
Dee Anne Bonebright
Higher EDge 