Jan 8, 2012
TIME IS MONEY! 5 tips for managing your time and increasing productivity with social media and online tools.
Social Media is an awesome tool for business (and personal use) but in truth, can consume a lot of time out of your day. Although majority of social networking is free, the price you pay is time, because remember folks, time is money.
Here are a few great tips and tools you can use to help you manage your time while still increasing your productivity while using social media.
1. Google Reader is an awesome tool that allows you to stay up to date with your favorite websites and content all in one place. Google Reader is a great RSS feed manager, pulling the content from your favorite blogs and websites and putting them all in one location for your viewing pleasure. (www.google.com/reader)
2. Set A Timer Although it may seem overly simplistic, setting a timer is a great way to manage the amount of time you are spending on social media websites or any other tasks for that matter. Set your timer for 30 minutes to spend on LinkedIn or Facebook, for example, and once that timer goes off– log off the site or close your browser and move on to your next to-do / task.
3. Hoot Suite lets you manage your Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook profiles in one easy-to-use dashboard. You post to all profiles or selectively post, schedule posts, filter streams, and has an analytics tool. The Basic Membership is FREE and there is a Pro Membership for only $5.99 per month. (www.hootsuite.com)
4. Producteev an online task manager that allows you to manage your schedule, tasks, and calendars–you set up alerts, reminders, emails and access from any internet connection. (www.producteev.com)
5. Gmail is a fantastic tool to synchronize your emails, multiple calendars, and access your contacts all in one location. You can also use additional gmail tools and plugins on your computer and your smart phone, making accessibility that much easier!
Remember that your time IS valuable! Work smarter, not harder!