Take Control of Your Schedule

Owning your own home business allows you the flexibility to work around family time and other personal commitments. However, as many consultants have experienced, it can be a daunting task to stay on track and manage time effectively. One of the best things you can do for yourself, your family and your business is learning to successfully manage your schedule. Follow these simple steps to organize your monthly schedule and assure you allocate your time wisely.

Your Calendar
You will want to get a monthly calendar to use this method of time blocking so you can see your entire month at-a-glance. I use different color pens for my personal commitments, family commitments and business commitments. This isn't necessary but it helps me quickly determine how my time is balanced. 

Blocking Personal and Family Commitments
The first thing I block on my calendar each month is my family commitments. Vacations, school functions, sports leagues, etc. Second I fill in all of my personal commitments such as doctor appointments, volunteer work, lunch with friends, etc. After I have scheduled in these things it is much easier to see what days/times I have available to book my shows and dedicate to my business.

Stay in Control of Your Schedule
Once I have my personal and family commitments out of the way I go through and star the best days/times on my calendar that I am available to hold shows. These are the dates I will offer my hostesses. 
TOP TIP: Always give your hostesses a choice between your first two available dates. This discourages them from booking too far out and there is a better chance you will be able to retain their excitement about hosting.

Open For Business Every Day
Holding the actual show is only part of your job as a consultant. The communication side of the party plan business is usually what suffers when a consultant does not have good time management skills. Block specific uninterrupted office hours into your week and open for business just as any other business would. Take this time to make customer phone calls, hostess coach, prepare supplies, etc.
TOP TIP: Prepare a list in advance of tasks to do and calls to make during your office hours. Your business will flourish when you spend less of your time organizing and preparing for success and more of your time your time doing activities that grow your business.