The more efficient you can be in running your business, the more time you have for other important tasks. Small business accounting software provider, Xero, shares ways that you can work smarter, not harder.

1. PLAN
   This should be the first thing you do at the start of the day. Start by writing down all the things you need to get done. Break the bigger and more complicated tasks into their component pieces so they’re more achievable and less intimidating. Now number the tasks in order of priority. (Try to get some of the unpleasant tasks out of the way first – it will make the rest of the day seem easier.)
   Keep the list somewhere visible so you can regularly check it throughout the day and cross off tasks.
2. OUTSOURCE
   Virtual assistants are perfect to perform administrative tasks (like answering the phone, typing, research, presentations or social media) as needed, so you can only pay for what you use.
   Once you’ve found an assistant online that you like the look of, try them out with a couple of small jobs to see how they go.
3. USE DOWNTIME
   As part of your daily planning process, make a list of small tasks that you can do at any time. These might be things like phoning back some clients, ordering stationery, finalizing a quote or paying a bill.
   Then when you’ve got a spare five minutes, whether it’s waiting for someone to ring you back or for a client to arrive, you can tackle one of these tasks and get it out of the way.

Specialising in Xero bookkeeping, Notch Above is a Brisbane bookkeeper and BAS Agent located in Alderley that offers Xero setup, as well as training and ongoing support. Notch Above can take care of all the bookkeeping tasks you would rather not do, like bank reconciliations, supplier payments, payroll services, debtor control and BAS returns.

Thanks for Xero for providing this article