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What does Punctuality Say About You?
JULY 3, 2013 BY KATHY COLAIACOVO
“You always call right on time.”
I have had this comment so often lately by clients and it worries me. I am fearful that it is a sign of the times and an indicator that people are not being punctual. And believe me, I am not perfect. When I make an appointment or meeting I try to be on time for everything. Life can happen and get in the way but if you have a plan to be on time – life will actually be less stressful.
For me, client calls are rarely an issue (sometimes the time zone confusion does cause a problem!)…it is the family appointments or events I find cause me trouble but I am working on it. I know what it is like when others miss my appointment so I do my best to be on time – even if it means moving every clock in the house, car and on my arm ahead by 5 minutes. It helps me be on time.
I think it says a lot about you and your personality, as well as your business ethics, as to whether you are on time or not. That’s why I move mountains to make sure the kids get to school and dental appointments on time. Even hair appointments should be treated as important – after all, the salon is a business and has other clients and if everyone disrespected their times, it would be a chaotic business.
Why does being Punctual for Business and other meetings matter?
Being punctual can show that you:
Value the time of others
Are Respectful of your intent to meet and do business
Have Integrity and follow-through with commitments
Are Disciplined and ready for work
Are not Stressed and open for new information
In business and life, we want people to know we value them and their time. So, if punctuality is an issue for you, I suggest you try a few tricks to help you become more punctual. Here are a few tips to start you off:
If it is an issue, acknowledge you have a time problem. Accept it and work with it.
Find ways to be more time-aware. Clocks/timers at the computer, in the kitchen, on your arm – everywhere – make certain you can always look up and know what time it is.
Set all clocks to the same time and move them ahead if this will help.
Stop underestimating ‘transit time’ (I am bad at this) and add 10 minutes to every travel time needed or set reminders of 30 minutes before each phone appointment.
Set a goal of being early for everything by 10 to 15 minutes. This will give you the leeway you need.
Stay organized and figure out what type of appointment calendar works best for you. Some prefer paper over digital / computer. It will depend on your style.
Don’t over book too many things together. Have down-time in between.
Create a schedule of similar type appointments to be held at routine times so you know that x block of time is for x type of appointments. Work the times to your personality and how you like to work.
Be prepared. Whether for a client meeting or personal one, have what you will need ready at least 1 hour ahead. You can then do other work but you are not scrambling to find what you need at the last minute.