3 Time Management Tips for Lawyers
As a practicing law professional, there’s no doubt that your job is demanding, and that time is your most valuable resource. In a field where minutes and seconds matter, there are a few steps you can follow to help make the most of your time.
- Adhere to the 80/20 rule
The 80/20 rule applies to many aspects of life, but it can also apply to time management and how you delegate tasks. In the work place, this rule suggests that 20 percent of your actions will equate to 80 percent of your work created. This holds true to your work as a law professional. Try to make sure you’re putting billable work first and foremost. Prioritize your tasks by giving your administrative tasks to staff so you can focus on your most important work first.
- Utilize technology
In this technology-based age, there are plenty of resources you can utilize to help manage your time and make the most of your work day. Many of these are accessible on your phone. Some options include Fastcase, perfect for faster legal research, or Trialpad for paperless trial presentations. There are also business card readers and to-do apps that you can download on your phone to help you easily keep track of contacts and manage your tasks.
- Minimize your task-switching
It takes a conscious effort for your brain to switch from one task to a completely new one. Going back and forth from one task to the next can take unnecessary time away from you. There are also dangers in multitasking, especially when you’re dealing with important material. You work your best when you’re focusing on a sole project so your ideas can grow. Try your best to focus on one task at a time and get it done before you switch to another. This will help you get your tasks completed successfully while minimizing the struggle of going from one idea to another.