Guide to Finding More Time on the Job

If you're like most small-business owners, you start each day feeling behind -- and likely end the day feeling the same way. Instead of stressing, implement these five must-do strategies today so you have a head start on business tomorrow.

1. Streamline communications. Instant messaging (IM) isn't just for teens. Almost any business that requires frequent communication between employees could benefit from IM, which allows real-time text-based communication. Yes, it's another communication vehicle that must be managed so it doesn't consume too much of your day. But it allows you to communicate with individuals -- or even a team, depending on the features of your IM services -- in real time. There's no time delay -- recipients see your message instantly, unlike with email. And if you do business in an open workspace, you can avoid interrupting the entire office when you need to communicate briefly with only one or two people.

2. Capture ideas when you have them. Chances are much of your thinking about your business -- perhaps your very best ideas -- happens outside of business hours and away from your desk. Don't lose those ideas; instead, capture and record them as they occur to you. Voice-to-text services such as Jott enable you to call a toll-free or local number and leave a voice message for yourself, other individuals or groups. The message is then converted to email or text message and sent to the appropriate people. You can even set up a work list and the service will add items to your to-do list when you call.

3. Take care of your health. You know the benefits of adequate sleep and regular exercise. But you're too busy for that, right? Wrong. Research shows that carving out a bit of time for these healthy habits will actually make you more productive when you're on the job. One aspect of good business is good ROI. You'll experience great ROI for time spent catching extra Zzzs, taking a brisk walk at lunch, or visiting the gym after work.

4. Form an advisory panel. One of the most time-consuming aspects of running a small business is agonizing over the aspects that don't come naturally to you. Create an advisory panel of people whose experience and strengths complement your own; most will be flattered and honored to share their advice. Schedule regular meetings with your advisors to address business opportunities and concerns. Or, if the idea of a panel seems too formal or overwhelming, find an individual business mentor through SCORE, a nonprofit association that matches small-business owners with working and retired business owners who donate their time as business counselors.

5. Self-assess. You and your business are unique. Figuring out the best way to make the most of your workday includes analyzing what isn't working for you. Create an "interruptions log," suggests Dr. Donald Wetmore, president of The Productivity Institute in Stratford, Conn. Use the log to jot down distractions or problems that arise and the amount of time you spend on them. So, for example, if you find that you spend a massive chunk of time attending to incoming email (and yes, we know this comes to you via email), it's time to manage your email overload.