Project managers are often faced with the dilemma of managing their time. The influx of tasks to be done at the same time can be very distressing. Most of these tasks have the same level of priority which can make a project manager baffled on how and where to start.

Effective time management is the key to handling multiple tasks easily. This is a skill that every project managers should exercise at all times.

Time and Goal Awareness
First thing that a project manager should do is to be aware of his/her use of time. Being aware not only means knowing but also analyzing. Analyze how time is spent during the day at during the week. Find out if there is an emerging pattern. Find out how much time was spent doing the tasks needed to complete a project. List down each task and the time spent doing it. Then list down any patterns transpiring during the week. Check those tasks done in a week if it leads to completing project goals.

Planning Time to Meet Project Goals
Start planning time to meet project goals by eliminating tasks that can be delegated. Combine recurring tasks done everyday that can be done in a few hours a day. Tasks should be scheduled in chronological order in order to eliminate going back and forth doing it. Allot a day in a week to schedule meetings. Allot time for answering queries from members and colleagues and inform them about it. Allot a few hours of free time which serves as contingency. Allot time in a week for reviewing tasks completed and plan for the next week’s agenda.

Time management in the workplace is crucial in the success or failure of a project or a leader. Analyzing and planning time is just the beginning. A project manager should follow the plan and learn how to deal with tasks that is not on schedule. A project manager can use a project management software to schedule and manage his/her time.