Multitasking is a necessity in small business, and can sound like an efficient cost saver. But if it’s not managed correctly, it can have a negative impact on you, your staff and your customers.

Multitasking is common in small business. Owners and their employees wear a variety of hats every day to meet customer demands and deadlines. But, employees who are expected to jump from task to task can become confused, distracted and stressed.

Eventually they may lose all motivation because they are not being given the chance to complete projects to a high standard and perform well in their role.

So how do you manage this necessity to make sure you and your team don’t get burnt out?

Give them time

Allow your staff to gradually move into multitasking. Handing too many tasks to them at once can become overwhelming if they haven’t yet grasped the art of juggling multiple tasks. Gradually increase the level of workload an Employee is given, and give them time to adjust to the idea of multitasking. 

Let them focus when it matters

At times, staff may need to stop multitasking and focus on key tasks when deadlines are looming. Allow staff to turn off their phone, ignore their email and close their door to focus on urgent projects. They will complete tasks in better time if they are left alone with minimal distractions.

Lists are gold!

Lists help you prioritise and are a good reference to get you back on track when you feel yourself getting lost. 

Take a break

Encourage your team to take regular breaks to re-charge their brain. No one performs well when they are tired and hungry.

What strategies do you use to keep track of how your staff are managing their workload? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for more discussions and tips surrounding recruitment, staff management and safety.