As a work-at-home mom I am a constant multi-tasker. In fact, even if I didn’t work from home I’d be doing more than one thing at a time. Nowadays most people do – except for my sister who has trouble chewing gum and driving at the same time, but that’s another topic for another post!!
I have found some things (ideas, products, organizational tools) that have helped me multitask more effectively and save time (at least I think they do!). My first thought on this topic is a headset for house phones. When I was a cold-calling stockbroker we used headsets all the time. It frees up your hands to do other things while you’re talking – not to mention it prevents your neck from being in that awkward cocked position necessary to keep the phone wedged between your chin and your shoulder. It helps me while at home to take the monotony out of some of my daily chores. I don’t mind as much emptying my dishwasher, folding laundry, cooking or even walking on the treadmill if I can do it while catching up with friends. And how about all those times I get stuck on hold? I almost don’t mind if I get left ‘hanging’ because if I have my hands free, I don’t feel as though my time is being wasted.
A few caveats:
1) The cordless phone attached to the headset needs to be hooked onto your mobile body somehow (some come with belt clips or you can just tuck the phone into your pocket). Be wary of protruding objects in your house. I can't tell you how many times the cord has snagged on a drawer pull or doorknob and yanked both headset and phone and sent them flying - small children and pets beware!
2) Its not always obvious you are actually talking to someone (you could be in between calls and just 'wearing’ the headset). Make sure family members know you are on the phone so there are no embarrassing comments, burps or other bodily function noises in the background that could be picked up by the headset’s external microphone. I have 3 kids and a husband…been there.
3) I’m always embarrassed when I’m on a call using my headset and the doorbell rings. I constantly feel compelled to remove it prior to answering the door for fear that I will be seen as a Madonna wannabe. When I have the headset on, I look like I’ve stepped off of a concert stage in the middle of a set!
Despite the above, and at the risk of sounding dramatic, a headset has had a huge impact on my day-to-day life. Wow, I do sound dramatic. Maybe I should just try talking on the phone less.
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1 comment:
I agree that the phone headset is mandatory in today's world of "on hold" listening to elevator music. My thoughts for getting things done "once" -- I hate to cook. So when I do I make 4 meatloafs,gallons of spaghetti sauce, 2 dozen chicken cutlets (one nite it is parmegian, one night plain, one night with salad on top, etc.) My freezer is full and I don't have to think too much. Better yet my kitchen is a mess only one day a month!
Especially helpful with teenagers changing their plans all the time.
I am in awe of all you juggle and do. Bet the kids are incredible. Guess you sister didnt get the multi-task gene.
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