We’ve all heard that saying “work smarter, not harder” right?
Over 70% of American workers say they often face traffic as they commute to and from work. This can cut into their productivity, making them late to meetings and putting them in a bad mood by the time they get to their desks.
Luckily, there’s an app for that.
Many app developers are creating managerial tools to help managers keep track of their personnel. These apps and tools for managers will make the office function more while also providing managers with vital information about their employees.
The tools you select to use in your workplace can make your day so much easier. Even better is that they cost you nothing but your time in implementation.
Keep reading for our guide to the best office tools for employees and managers. You’ll learn how to stay on top of your team no matter how large or small it is. You can also read about how these managerial tools will benefit you and your company’s workflow.
Table of Contents
Automation Tool
Automation is another key to smart work. By using tools like Zapier, or IFTTT, managers can automate tasks that would otherwise take up valuable time. For example, automating expense reports or appointment reminders.
Automated tools can help you automate repetitive tasks, freeing up your time to focus on more important tasks. They can also help you manage your team more by providing you with real-time data and insights.
Project Management
This type of project management tool can help you in keeping track of tasks, deadlines, and progress so that you can stay on top of your projects and complete them on time and on budget.
Managers nowadays have access to a variety of project management tools. Which ones, though, are essential? The following four are essential:
- Tracking progress. This will help you track the progress of your team, so you can see how they are doing against the plan.
- Managing deadlines. This can help you manage deadlines and is essential, so you can make sure that your team is on track to meet them.
- Communicating with your team. This tool will help you communicate with your team, so you can give them updates and get feedback from them.
- Reporting to upper management. This will also help you report to upper management, so they can see how the project is going.
Tools for Delegating Tasks
If you want to become a better manager, you need to learn how to delegate tasks. The following will help you delegate tasks more efficiently:
- Trust: delegate tasks to people you trust to get the job done.
- Training: Provide training to your team members so they know how to properly complete the task.
- Time management: delegation is not effective if you do not manage your time. Make sure you have enough time to delegate tasks and follow up with your team.
- Hold your team members accountable for the duties they have been assigned. This will ensure that the task is effectively accomplished.
Time-saving Tool for Managers
There are a few essential tools for managers that can help you work smarter, not harder. One of those tools is a time-saving tool. Time-saving tools help you manage your time more so you can get more done in less time. They can also help you avoid wasting time on tasks that are not productive.
There are many time management tools available, so it’s important to choose the correct one that fits your needs and management style. A task list is a common time-saving tool. A task list can help you in focusing on your activities and ensuring that the most important tasks are done first.
Platforms or tools like Evernote, mesh.ai, and Dropbox can help you organize your thoughts and data so that you can access them without any effort.
File Sharing and Collaboration Tool
A file sharing and collaboration tool is a great way to stay organized and keep track of all your projects and tasks. It allows you to share files and documents with your team members and work on them together in real-time. This can save a lot of time and hassle when trying to stay on top of projects.
There are a lot of different file sharing and collaboration tools available, so it’s important to find one that best fits your needs. Some popular options include Google Drive, Dropbox, and Microsoft One Drive.
Make sure that the file sharing and collaboration tool you choose is one that you and your team will like using. It can have a significant impact on your productivity and success as a manager.
Tools for Improving Communication
Effective communication is key to any successful team. Without clear and concise communication, it will be difficult to get everyone on the same page and working towards the same goal.
Also, communication tools such as email and instant messaging may keep you in touch with team members and clients. And collaboration tools such as Google Docs and Dropbox can help you share files and collaborate on projects.
Tools for Managing Employee Performance
Performance management software is a type of software that can help managers keep track of employee performance. And identify areas where improvement is in need.
Also, regular check-ins and feedback sessions are key to keeping employees engaged and motivated. By using these tools, managers can work smarter and more efficiently, while also helping their employees reach their full potential.
Essential Tools for Managers
In conclusion, as a manager, you are always looking for ways to be more efficient and effective. By using these essential tools, you can work smarter, not harder.
By automating repetitive tasks, delegating, and using data to make decisions, you can free up your time to focus on the most important tasks.
End your workday feeling accomplished with these essential tools for managers. From communicating with your team to tracking your to-do list. Apply these tools to your daily routine and see an improvement in your work-life balance.
Looking for other info and resources on being a better manager? Keep coming back for more articles on all things business.
