Dianna Booher

<font size="2"> By Dianna Booher<br />
<br />
With the holidays in full swing, we're all trying to accomplish<br />
more and more. This season, handle less and accomplish more.<br />
Identify and eliminate unnecessary paperwork and handle "must-do"<br />
communication effectively.<br />
<br />
Learn When to Talk and When to Write<br />
In many situations, talking will better achieve your objectives<br />
than writing will. Negotiating small details, getting immediate<br />
feedback, and seeing reactions to your messages are all better<br />
done in person than by pen or keyboard.<br />
<br />
Use--Don't Abuse--Electronic Message Systems<br />
Email makes it easy and convenient to send your messages to the<br />
whole world by pressing a key. But don't send unnecessary information,<br />
or others won't pay attention to truly important emails you send. <br />
<br />
<br />
Eliminate Most Cover Letters<br />
Most cover letters communicate only the obvious:  "I'm sending<br />
you something. You now have it." If you need a record of submission,<br />
put a "Submitted to ..." and "Submitted by ..." along with the date on<br />
the title page of the document itself.<br />
<br />
Be Informal in Your Responses<br />
Not every email message or letter you receive merits a formal response.<br />
Calling may be quicker than writing. People aren't nearly as impressed<br />
by formality as by accuracy, speed, and thoroughness.<br />
<br />
Forget the Idea That "More Is Better"<br />
More is not better. There is little correlation between quantity and<br />
quality. Consider the importance of your message and tailor your<br />
comments accordingly. Less can mean more--more readers, more insight,<br />
more impact.<br />
<br />
Although minimizing paperwork will require revamping old habits, the<br />
end justifies the means.  You'll find yourself spending more focused<br />
time on the important documents you do handle.</font><br />