What is the (real) deadline?

People often ask for things to be completed by a certain day, then spend time sorting out how to get it done in the time, juggling other tasks and deadlines, or, in too many cases, working silly hours and not completing something which seems less important.

How often does someone ask questions such as:

• "when it will be needed by?"
• "what happens if it is late?"
• "could someone else do this?"

Projects often have an ideal deadline date, although there is frequently some room for negotiation, provided it is done early on, rather than simply running late and letting other things slip. Equally, some projects have a date which is set "in stone" and cannot be moved, meaning extra people and resources are needed to get everything done by the deadline.

Next time someone asks you for something with "I want it by ....", find out more and commit to what you can do, being clear when you can't do things. Be clear and assertive.

Sue Cohen Ltd can help you plan short and long-term projects, ensure communication across all business areas and stakeholders, manage time, budgets and deadlines, in the best way for your organisation.