When it comes to increasing efficiency and reducing the stress of running a small business, one of the best areas to focus is boosting productivity. This allows you to get more accomplished while also reducing the amount of time it takes you to get this done. This means less late night office hours, fewer last-minute issues and more time enjoying the benefits of owning your own business. These five productivity tips address common issues that many small business owners face today.
1. Establish routines
Though it would be impossible to schedule every aspect of your day, scheduling as much as possible has outstanding benefits. Start small with a few minor tasks, such as responding to contact requests and organizing your office. As you get comfortable with each task, add another task to your list. If something unexpected occurs, simply return to your list as soon as possible. You will not be able to follow the list perfectly every day. That is okay. However, with a little effort, you might be surprised just how much you can get done.

2. Organize your workspace
Whether you are working behind a counter or in an office, organization will streamline your work throughout the day. With the hectic nature of running a business, it is easy to let things slide until they seem insurmountable. By taking a few minutes each day to organize your desk, paperwork and other common items, you always know where things are when you need them and can get more done.
3. Utilize technology to boost productivity
From cloud computing and video conferencing services to remote closed circuit monitoring and RFID tracking, there is a plethora of technology possibilities to improve productivity. Take notes of the amount of time that you invest performing common tasks throughout the day. Once you have your list, simply check for services and solutions that might be available to help reduce the time you invest in these tasks. By freeing up your time, you can get more done without having to spend days at a time on location.
4. Avoid excessive multitasking
While multitasking can be a great way to get things accomplished, too much multitasking leads to starting too many tasks and finishing too few. Try to focus on each task you are performing exclusively for a few minutes at a time. When you reach a point that at which it would be easy to transition to another task, start the next task. Picking similar tasks can help you to retain focus as well. Repeat the process with just a few tasks and you will often find that you are getting more accomplished. Once you have finished the few tasks, pick a new set of tasks, shift your focus and start again.
5. Know when you need to delegate tasks
Sometimes the best way to improve productivity it by letting other people handle tasks. Many small business owners make the mistake of trying to do everything or failing to fully utilize existing sources of assistance. This leads to inefficiency and increased stress in many cases. Whether you are simply outsourcing email responses or customer services or calling in a team of inventory specialists or hiring new employees, the time saved through doing so will let you focus on your strengths while ensuring that other areas of your business are covered as well.

About the Author: Steven Boggs has been writing about technology and templates and tools for small businesses for nearly a decade. When he’s not writing, you can find Steve volunteering at his local community center.