Prioritise - I know what is critical and what needs to be done first. Strategies and tactics for week 3.back to basicsĭefine how I am going to use the technology - Rather then using all of the platforms for all of the same types of communication, I made time to redefine what kind of communication I would use email, Skype, mobile calls and direct messaging for.īlock out time -I block out left over white space in my calendar to address emails and phone messages. I also ended up making calls when I was walking my dog or cooking dinner. As it was after hours, I ended up contributing the problem by sending lots of emails to everyone else. I tried staying up late attending to all the emails and messages by sending more emails. In the second week I attempted to contact and respond to everyone from week 1 but still needed to respond to everyone in week 2. By the end of week one, I may or may not have been rocking under my desk in the foetal position. I tried to text as many people to reach out. I am sorry to everyone who I didn't ring back. The first week I literally just couldn't keep up and I gave up. If I am lucky enough to have time to talk on my mobile phone, I am also receiving multiple calls on my mobile at the same time - thanks to Apple providing the 'hold and accept' and 'conference call feature' for up to 5 callers! On a Skype call, and being called on my personal mobile. On a Skype call, and being called on my work mobile. On a Skype call, receiving multiple Skype DM's. On a Skype call, someone is trying to Skype me. Whilst these are happening, I am also receiving: I typically have around 6 formals Skype calls/meetings a day. However, there are so many ways you can be contacted all at the same time!

I also understand that communication is critical in any workplace, and extra critical when you are working from home. If you follow me or connect with me on the various social media platforms, you know that I love connecting and collaborating. Much of this new technology is to enable communication and collaboration. However, I am experiencing online overwhelm. I am usually an early adopter at home or at work.

Skype audio overload