Early on in my career it was drilled into my head to base my priorities on what would keep someone else working. In other words, when I am finished with this task, who handles it next?
Filing? Filing is the ultimate last step; it doesn’t affect anyone else. This is what makes filing a low-priority, but not low-level task. I mean, the alphabet still applies.
Check run? I have to get the signature, so I need my boss. I have to mail it, so I need to beat the mailman. The vendor needs to deposit their check. There is a simple listing of three people potentially waiting for me to finish my task.
Signed Contract? It needs to be opened, given to the president to sign, then mailed back.
Office Manager Tip: Always prioritize your work in such a way that you keep others' hands full.
— Riggins Construction (@RigginsConst) December 8, 2010
Deposits? I have to copy the check, fill out the slip, and give it to someone to take to the bank who will return with the receipt so that I can process the deposit and do a check run.