Today's leader must be able to effectively manage the brief moments of interaction with their subordinates and colleagues to set aside enought time during the day for more important activities in the long term. How does it work?
1. Ask others to speak on the matter. Ask them directly to say just what you do not know and what you probably do not even want to hear. You might be surprised how it will be brief.
2. Send clear signals that people who come to your office to talk do not go in handy. To speed up the conversation, get up from your table and lead the dialog as close to the door as possible. You can also directly say that you do not have enough time at the moment and agree on a specific later date.
3. Teach your subordinates and colleagues what they can expect. Whenever they come to you with a question, ask directly if they already thought about solutions.
4. Hold shorts meeting with subordinates. When you commit only a few minutes to them, it may be a surprise at first. They will, however, quickly learn to clearly express themselves in a short period of time.
5. Streamline team meetings. Meet only when it is necessary and when you have a prearranged agenda.
6. Schedule regular periods of time for open discussion. When your co-workers know when they can freely discuss, they will not bring their ides at wrong time.
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