Here’s a disclaimer before you start reading this post.  I’m not writing it to brag or leave you thinking that I’m the greatest colleague or employee of all time.  I’m trying to make a point, so I hope you will look at it in that light. 

Now that said, I’ve often been told that I am really great to work with.  Some people have gone so far as to tell me that I’m their favorite person in the organization to deal with.  They mean it too.  And why?  It’s not because I’m the smartest, most knowledgeable, most talented, most likeable, or most competent.  It’s because I answer their e-mails and return their phone calls within 24 hours of receiving a message.

That’s it.  Nothing special, but unique because so many people fail to respond in a timely manner – if at all – when others contact them.  Our inboxes and voice mailboxes are flooded with hundreds of messages a day, and people understandably want to prioritize.  They answer the inquiries from their boss and other people considered “important,” and they ignore everyone else.  If you’re a salesperson or an entry-level staffer in nearly any field, you can almost count on the fact that no one will ever get back to you about anything.

I make it a habit to answer every person who gets in touch with me, even if it’s just to say that they have the wrong person or I’m not interested.  This sets me apart, and strengthens my reputation as a team player and a considerate human being.  It’s a good idea for you to aim for the same thing, but how can you pull it off without spending all day in Outlook or on the phone?  I recommend setting aside an hour each day to return messages.  Do not attempt to respond at other times unless the matter is urgent or the requester is your boss or someone on your immediate team. You may find that your productivity actually increases as a result.