Having trouble concentrating on important tasks at work because of frequent interruptions? If so, knowing how to control and avoid them can increase your productivity. Here is a quiz to help you assess your knowledge of how to deal with interruptions.
1. It’s efficient to check your e-mail every time you get a message.
A. _____ True
B. _____ False
2. You should always work with your office door open.
A. _____ True
B. _____ False
3. If part of your job involves frequent consultation with your staff or coworkers, schedule a specific time on your calendar for those meetings each day.
A. _____ True
B. _____ False
4. Stand up to talk when someone comes into your office uninvited.
A. _____ True
B. _____ False
5. If someone comes into your office with something important to discuss, ask the person to give you a few minutes, then go to his or her office.
A. _____ True
B. _____ False
6. Arrange your desk and chair so you’re not in full view of casual passersby.
A. _____ True
B. _____ False
7. Have a comfortable chair for visitors in your office.
A. _____ True
B. _____ False
8. If someone with a problem or a question walks into your office uninvited, ignore them.
A. _____ True
B. _____ False
9. Always answer your phone, even if you’re working on an important project.
A. _____ True
B. _____ False
Answers
1. The correct answer is B. False. It’s more efficient to open your e-mail only twice a day, unless you’re expecting a crucial message.
2. The correct answer is B. False. Doing so invites interruptions. Instead, close your door or, if you work in a cubicle, stretch a piece of tape across the opening or find another way to indicate you’re unavailable when you have crucial work you must complete.
3. The correct answer is A. True. By scheduling the meeting times, you can better plan your day.
4. The correct answer is A. True. You’re in for a long interruption if you let your visitor sit comfortably in a chair.
5. The correct answer is A. True. That way, you can control the length of the conversation.
6. The correct answer is A. True. People will usually think twice about disturbing you if they have to peek around the corner to see you.
7. The correct answer is B. False. Having a comfortable chair for visitors increases the chances people will stop by to chat.
8. The correct answer is A. True. Instead, say, “I’m tied up at the moment. Can you come back at (suggest a specific time), and we can talk about it then?”
9. The correct answer is B. False. Let voice mail or the receptionist pick it up. Then, at the 60- to 90-minute mark, check your messages and return your calls.