Productivity Tips You Learn on the Job

Productive ProfessionsI have often credited my job as a news producer for honing my time management skills. Working in television has not only taught me the value of a minute, but also how to stick to a strict deadline. That’s because the news happens with or without you and you better be ready as a producer.

But what about other professions? Here are some example of jobs and the productivity tips we can learn from them.

Firefighters – These guys and gals are known for being ready to go at a moment’s notice. All their equipment is laid out, the tanks are filled, the whole process is geared to take as little time as possible. Because a couple of minutes can make all the difference when it comes to a fire — preparation is key. While your day to day might not be as important it’s still a good idea to do as much as you can in advance.

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Get a List-Making Makeover

makeoverI’m a sucker for the makeovers on morning TV shows.  I just get so excited and I love watching the transformations.  I always think “Will she keep up with that look? Her hair looks so cute!”

When I did my very first book signing last week it was a great opportunity to meet some of the readers of this blog and give them a little makeover of their own.  A few people brought me their lists to take a look at and help rework their list making techniques. Read more

Bobby Flay is also a List Producer

Fast Company recently compiled an article on the most successful people’s productivity secrets. One of the featured celebrities is Bobby Flay who admits that he uses lists to keep on top of things.

Bobby Flay

Bobby says:

Whether I’m cooking Thanksgiving dinner or starting a new menu at [his newest restaurant] Gato, I make lists. When I cross things off, it makes me feel accomplished. It’s the only way I can get things done. It wasn’t something I learned in school—I dropped out of high school, so anything I did then wasn’t successful. I learned it later.

Bobby also talked about how he keeps his lists on a yellow legal pad. Check out my pinboard to find your favorite list making celebrity:

Follow Paula Rizzo – ListProducer.com’s board Successful List Producers on Pinterest.