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Margaret Meloni, MBA, PMP

You will be able to gain and apply your knowledge and understanding of personal and professional awareness, organization and commitment, and use the tools, methods and techniques that you have learned in goal setting, prioritization, scheduling, and delegation to overcome time management challenges and enhance productivity.

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You will be able to gain and apply your knowledge and understanding of personal and professional awareness, organization and commitment, and use the tools, methods and techniques that you have learned in goal setting, prioritization, scheduling, and delegation to overcome time management challenges and enhance productivity.

Upon completing this course, you will be able to:

1. Learn to plan effectively to achieve your personal and professional goals

2. Learn to recognize and overcome barriers to successful time management

3. Identify specific time management tools and use them effectively

4. Manage resources both effectively and efficiently

5. Keep your sense of perspective to prevent and manage crises

6. Learn to delegate effectively

7. Learn to manage expectations and say “No” when appropriate

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What's inside

Syllabus

Module 1
Welcome to Module 1 of Work Smarter, Not Harder. This module we will explore the difference between productive and unproductive work, the importance of prioritizing, and basics of time planning. We will also reflect together on some of our past work situations and create our own individual work plans.
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Module 2
Welcome to Module 2 of Work Smarter, Not Harder. This module we will discuss whether work/life balance is a myth and complete a work/life balance toolkit. We’ll also reflect on the time/money tradeoff and consider what tasks we may be able to hand off to others.
Module 3
Welcome to Module 3 of Work Smarter, Not Harder. This module we’ll discuss the importance of timing and how to handle communications. We’ll share our personal experiences of time management as well as journal our energy levels to find when we’re most productive.
Module 4
Welcome to the final module of Work Smarter, Not Harder. This module we’ll wrap up by exploring focus as a competitive advantage and the idea of multitasking. We’ll share our takeaways from the course and conclude with identifying our most common distractions.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Provides tools and techniques to resolve time management challenges
Guides learners in setting goals, prioritizing tasks, and scheduling time effectively
Empowers learners to manage resources efficiently and prevent crises
Suitable for individuals seeking to enhance their productivity and overcome time management obstacles
Taught by experienced instructors with expertise in project management
Aligned with industry best practices in time management and goal setting

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Reviews summary

Smart time management

Students say this course teaches foundational time management skills, especially in avoiding multitasking and focusing on the most important tasks. While short, learners say the course is engaging, simple, and gives actionable strategies to improve productivity and manage time more efficiently in work and personal life. Reviewers note the course is mostly applicable for beginners, and may not offer enough advanced or specific content for experienced time managers.
Explains why multitasking is ineffective and provides strategies for avoiding or minimizing it.
"Learners say this course teaches foundational time management skills, especially in avoiding multitasking and focusing on the most important tasks."
Helps students understand the distinction between tasks that are important, urgent, or both, and offers guidance for prioritizing tasks appropriately.
"Learners say this course teaches foundational time management skills, especially in avoiding multitasking and focusing on the most important tasks."
"Students say the course is engaging, simple, and gives actionable strategies to improve productivity and manage time more efficiently in work and personal life."
Offers strategies for recognizing and eliminating or minimizing distractions, such as email, social media, and other interruptions.
"Students say the course is engaging, simple, and gives actionable strategies to improve productivity and manage time more efficiently in work and personal life."
Introduces the core tenets of effective time management, prioritizing tasks, managing distractions, and maintaining work-life balance.
"Learners say this course teaches foundational time management skills, especially in avoiding multitasking and focusing on the most important tasks."
"Students say the course is engaging, simple, and gives actionable strategies to improve productivity and manage time more efficiently in work and personal life."
While the course may provide a valuable introduction to time management concepts, it may be less comprehensive for those with previous knowledge or experience in the area.
"Reviewers note the course is mostly applicable for beginners, and may not offer enough advanced or specific content for experienced time managers."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Work Smarter, Not Harder: Time Management for Personal & Professional Productivity with these activities:
Review Basic Time Management Techniques
Refreshing your understanding of basic time management techniques provides a solid foundation for effective learning in this course.
Browse courses on Time Management
Show steps
  • Review concepts such as time blocking, task prioritization, and delegation.
  • Identify areas where you can apply these techniques to improve your own time management.
Explore Online Resources on Time Management
Exploring online resources provides access to a wealth of information and techniques to enhance your time management skills.
Browse courses on Time Management
Show steps
  • Identify credible websites, articles, or videos on time management.
  • Review the content and apply relevant strategies to your own life.
Read 'The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People'
This book provides valuable insights into personal and professional effectiveness, helping you develop the skills and habits necessary for success in time management.
Show steps
  • Purchase the book and set aside time for reading.
  • Read the book thoroughly, taking notes and highlighting key concepts.
  • Reflect on the principles and apply them to your personal and work life.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Join a Study Group or Accountability Partner
Collaborating with peers allows you to share insights, learn from others' experiences, and stay motivated.
Show steps
  • Find or create a study group or identify an accountability partner.
  • Set regular meeting times and stick to them.
  • Share your challenges, successes, and strategies.
Implement a Time Tracking Exercise
Tracking your time helps you understand how you spend it, identify areas for improvement, and develop more effective time management strategies.
Show steps
  • Choose a time tracking tool or method.
  • Record your activities and the time spent on each task.
  • Analyze the data to identify patterns and areas for improvement.
Develop a Personalized Time Management Plan
Creating a personalized time management plan helps you prioritize tasks, set goals, and maximize productivity.
Show steps
  • Identify your goals and objectives.
  • Analyze your current time usage and identify areas for improvement.
  • Use time management techniques and tools to create a personalized plan.
  • Implement the plan and monitor its effectiveness.
Attend a Time Management Workshop
Time management workshops provide structured learning experiences, practical tools, and expert insights to enhance your skills.
Show steps
  • Identify and register for a reputable time management workshop.
  • Attend the workshop and actively participate in activities and discussions.
  • Apply the techniques and strategies learned to your daily routine.
Read 'Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity'
This book offers a comprehensive system for organizing tasks and projects, helping you achieve greater productivity and reduce stress.
Show steps
  • Obtain the book and dedicate time for reading.
  • Read the book attentively, taking notes and highlighting important concepts.
  • Implement the GTD system in your personal and professional life.

Career center

Learners who complete Work Smarter, Not Harder: Time Management for Personal & Professional Productivity will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Marketing Manager
A Marketing Manager is responsible for developing and executing marketing campaigns for a product or service. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including marketing team members, sales team members, and customers. Marketing Managers are also responsible for tracking the results of their campaigns and making adjustments as needed. This course can be helpful for those who want to become a Marketing Manager as it provides a strong foundation in time management, prioritization, and goal setting.
Project Manager
A Project Manager is accountable for the successful completion of one or more projects. They must complete projects within specified constraints. Some of these constraints include scope, time, and budget. Their work impacts the business goals of an organization or the needs of a client. It is common for Project Managers to lead teams and delegate tasks to ensure targets are reached. This course may be useful for those who want to enter this field as it teaches the skills necessary to plan and execute a project successfully.
Sales Manager
A Sales Manager is responsible for leading and managing a sales team. They are accountable for achieving the sales goals of their team, as well as ensuring that their team is working effectively and efficiently. Sales Managers often have a variety of responsibilities, including recruiting, training, and motivating their sales team. This course may be useful for those who want to become a Sales Manager as it can help them develop the skills they need to manage their team and their time effectively.
Business Analyst
A Business Analyst is responsible for analyzing business processes and making recommendations for improvement. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including business leaders, IT professionals, and end users. Business Analysts use their knowledge of business and technology to help organizations improve their efficiency and effectiveness. This course may be useful for those who want to become a Business Analyst as it provides a strong foundation in time management, process analysis, and stakeholder management.
Software Engineer
A Software Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing software applications. They work with a variety of programming languages and technologies to develop software that meets the needs of users. Software Engineers often work in teams and must be able to manage their time and resources effectively. This course may be useful for those who want to become a Software Engineer as it provides a strong foundation in time management, software development, and testing.
Data Analyst
A Data Analyst is responsible for collecting, cleaning, and analyzing data. They work with a variety of data sources, including structured data, unstructured data, and big data. Data Analysts use their knowledge of statistics and data mining to help organizations make informed decisions. This course may be useful for those who want to become a Data Analyst as it provides a strong foundation in time management, data analysis, and data visualization.
Financial Analyst
A Financial Analyst is responsible for analyzing financial data and making recommendations to clients. They work with a variety of clients, including individuals, businesses, and governments. Financial Analysts use their knowledge of finance to help clients make informed investment decisions. This course may be useful for those who want to become a Financial Analyst as it provides a strong foundation in time management, data analysis, and financial modeling.
Product Manager
A Product Manager is responsible for the development and launch of a new product or service. They work closely with engineers, designers, and marketers to bring a product to market that meets the needs of customers. Product Managers also oversee the product lifecycle, from ideation to launch and beyond. This course can be helpful for those who want to become a Product Manager as it provides a strong foundation in time management, prioritization, and goal setting.
Operations Manager
An Operations Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of a department or organization. They are the ones who plan and oversee the processes and procedures that keep things running smoothly. Operations Managers are often responsible for budgeting, staffing, and training. They also work to improve efficiency and productivity. This course can be helpful for those interested in a career in operations as it provides a strong foundation in time management, organization, and efficiency.
Consultant
A Consultant provides professional advice to clients on a variety of business issues. They may work in a variety of industries, including management consulting, financial consulting, and technology consulting. Consultants typically have a deep understanding of a specific area of expertise and can offer valuable insights to their clients. This course may be helpful for those who want to become a Consultant as it can help them develop the skills they need to manage their time and projects effectively.
Teacher
A Teacher is responsible for educating students in a variety of subjects. They work with students of all ages, from preschool to college. Teachers develop lesson plans, teach classes, and assess student learning. They also work with parents and other stakeholders to ensure that students are successful. This course may be useful for those who want to become a Teacher as it can help them develop the skills they need to manage their time and their classroom effectively.
Product Designer
A Product Designer is responsible for designing and developing products that meet the needs of users. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including engineers, marketers, and customers. Product Designers use their knowledge of design thinking and user experience to create products that are both useful and desirable. This course may be useful for those who want to become a Product Designer as it provides a strong foundation in time management, design thinking, and user experience.
Program Manager
A Program Manager is in charge of overseeing the successful delivery of a set of related projects. They are accountable for achieving the goals and objectives of a program, as well as ensuring that the program is completed within the specified time, budget, and quality constraints. Program Managers often work with multiple stakeholders, including project managers, team members, and clients. This course may be useful for those who want to become a Program Manager as it can help them develop the skills they need to plan, execute, and close a program successfully.
Event Planner
An Event Planner is responsible for planning and executing events, such as weddings, conferences, and corporate events. They work with clients to determine their needs and develop a plan for the event. Event Planners also oversee the logistics of the event, including venue selection, vendor management, and budget management. This course can be helpful for those who want to become an Event Planner as it provides a strong foundation in time management, organization, and event planning.
Manager
A Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of a team or department. They are accountable for achieving the goals and objectives of their team, as well as ensuring that their team is working effectively and efficiently. Managers often have a variety of responsibilities, including planning, budgeting, staffing, and training. This course can be helpful for those who want to become a Manager as it provides a strong foundation in time management, organization, and leadership.

Reading list

We've selected 15 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Work Smarter, Not Harder: Time Management for Personal & Professional Productivity.
As one of the most popular time management books, Getting Things Done dives into the nuances of personal organization and efficiency. It provides practical strategies for managing tasks, setting priorities, and creating a system that works for you.
This practical guide focuses on overcoming procrastination and maximizing productivity. Tracy provides simple and effective techniques to help you prioritize tasks, manage distractions, and achieve your goals.
Introduces the Pomodoro Technique, a time management method that involves breaking down work into focused intervals followed by short breaks. It's a valuable tool for improving focus and productivity.
Newport argues for the importance of deep work, a state of intense focus and concentration. provides strategies for creating a distraction-free environment and developing a disciplined approach to work.
Explores the science of habit formation and how it can be applied to improve productivity and personal growth. Understanding habits can help you break negative patterns and establish more effective routines.
This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step approach to time management. It covers various techniques, tools, and strategies for planning, prioritizing, and delegating tasks effectively.
Emphasizes the importance of identifying and focusing on the most important task. It provides a framework for setting priorities and eliminating distractions to achieve significant results.
Provides a science-based approach to building good habits and breaking bad ones. It offers practical tips and techniques for creating lasting changes in your behavior.
Examines the impact of information overload on our ability to focus and make decisions. It provides strategies for managing information, reducing distractions, and improving cognitive performance.
Provides a practical guide to time blocking and prioritizing tasks. It offers a step-by-step framework for creating a schedule that allows you to focus on your most important activities.

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