Managing Your Marketing Tasks With A Spreadsheet

In the last post I talked about the pros and cons of buying, using, and various time management software applications. As an alternative, I am going to discuss managing your Internet marketing tasks with a spreadsheet.

Since we know that time management is an important component of generating income as an internet marketer, it’s important to find the right type of tools to suit your needs. Yes, there is time management software available, as we discussed in the last post but it can be expensive, have a steep learning curve and often ends up being a source of distraction. For that reason, you can try relying on simpler tools, like a spreadsheet.

So, why should you use a spreadsheet for time management as an internet marketer?

It’s free – well maybe… If you already have a spreadsheet program like Excel on your computer, then you won’t be spending money on another program (so it is kinda like being free). Since it’s free to use and already installed on your computer, why not use it? When properly used, it will produce the same results as many expensive programs you may have considered using.

If you don’t have a program already like Excel or Numbers, you can always use Google Sheets – this is a free service that Google offers. One other alternative is from OpenOffice – this is a free alternative to the Microsoft Suite of applications (like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)

It’s easy

Spreadsheets are designed to promote organization. For that reason, it’s easy for you to use one to your advantage. Get started with a blank spreadsheet. Fill in the tasks you need to complete on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. In fact, that leads to another benefit of using spreadsheets as a time management tool, your options.

You can create a spreadsheet however you want. With that said, make sure your plan is well organized, easy to read on the computer and printable. Since spreadsheets are organizational tools, you can make your plan as simple or detailed as you want.

Daily spreadsheets are ideal for going into detail. If you end up completing your tasks but rushing at the last minute, you need to change your daily and hourly work habits. The best way is with a daily spreadsheet schedule.

With a daily spreadsheet, you can do set blocks of time. For example, in the columns record time blocks, such as 9 am to 10 am. In the rows underneath, write what you want to do in that time frame.

For example, do you want to write five articles for your website? Just write “Write five articles.” Once you have completed those articles, cross them off your list. Keep in mind that being general lets you use the same spreadsheet each week, which is ideal for creating a common, productive schedule. Just save a copy on your computer and print as needed.

In addition to daily spreadsheet schedules, weekly are popular as well. If you’re okay with managing your time but have only a few problems, a weekly schedule may work. Remember, if you have difficulties managing your hour-to-hour day, a daily spreadsheet is recommended.

When creating a weekly schedule, start with the columns. Write each day in a separate column. This may require 2 printable pages. In the rows underneath, highlight the tasks you want to complete. In addition to being generalized, you can go into further detail. For example, record the names of the articles you want to write or which directories you intend to submit to.

Having a detailed to-do list in the form of a spreadsheet right by your side will be easier. In fact, regularly having to bring it up on your computer screen can technically be considered a distraction. Remember, when you’re looking to improve your time management skills, even the smallest distractions can cost you time and money. Using a spreadsheet can help keep you on track.

What do you use to track / manage your tasks? Leave a comment before and share it with us!