You’re a network engineer with multiple deadlines. How can you keep everything organized?

2 Prioritize wisely

Not all tasks and projects are equally important or urgent. You need to prioritize your work based on the impact, value, and deadline of each one. Use a matrix or a method like the Eisenhower matrix or the MoSCoW method to categorize your work into four quadrants: do first, schedule, delegate, or eliminate. Focus on the tasks and projects that are in the do first quadrant, and plan ahead for the ones in the schedule quadrant. Delegate or outsource the tasks and projects that are not your core competencies or that can be done by someone else more efficiently. Eliminate or decline the tasks and projects that are not relevant or valuable to your goals or your clients.

3 Communicate clearly

Communication is key to keeping everything organized and avoiding misunderstandings or conflicts. You need to communicate regularly and effectively with your team, your clients, and your stakeholders. Use the appropriate channels and tools for different types of communication, such as email, chat, phone, video call, or online meeting. Keep your communication concise, clear, and courteous. Provide updates on your status, progress, and challenges. Ask for feedback, clarification, and support when needed. Listen actively and empathically to others and acknowledge their concerns and expectations.

4 Automate and optimize

One way to save time and reduce errors is to automate and optimize your work processes and workflows. You can use scripts, tools, or software to automate repetitive or tedious tasks, such as configuration, testing, deployment, or monitoring. You can also optimize your work environment and setup by using shortcuts, templates, or standards to streamline your work. For example, you can use code snippets, libraries, or frameworks to speed up your coding. You can also use naming conventions, documentation, or version control to organize your files and code.

5 Learn and improve

Finally, you should always seek to learn and improve your skills and knowledge as a network engineer. You can do this by taking courses, reading books, blogs, or articles, watching videos, podcasts, or webinars, or joining online communities or forums. You can also learn from your own experience by reviewing your work, identifying your strengths and weaknesses, and applying feedback and lessons learned. By learning and improving, you can increase your efficiency, quality, and value as a network engineer.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?