If you aren’t using the Tasks function in Outlook, then now is the time to start. Here’s some tips that will help you prioritise and quantify your workload – you might even find some tasks you can delegate.
Convert an email to a task: drag and drop an email into the task section. A new task box will pop open with all of the email content inside. A copy of the email will also stay in your inbox.
Delegate tasks: right click on the task and select the ‘assign task’ option, type the email address of the person you would like to assign the task to and send. The task will also stay in your task list so you don’t forget to follow up.
Customise your page view: don’t just settle for the standard view. Go into the ‘view’ menu and test out different ways of using the ‘to do bar’ and ‘reading pane’ to find out what works best for you.
Customise your ‘to-do list’ fields: right click on the ‘task subject’ bar then ‘customise current view’ to add and remove relevant fields such as billing information, assigned to and date completed.
Task timeline: this is found under ‘view’ then ‘current view’ and is useful for checking work flows and helping set realistic timeframes.
Assign categories to tasks: rename categories by clicking the categories icon then ‘all categories’. You can then assign categories to your tasks, and see at a glance whether you are spending adequate amounts of time in the right areas.
Stay focused: keep Outlook open on the tasks view rather than your Inbox. This will help reduce distractions and keep you focused.
These are just a few of tips. If you'd like to know more please call us.