One of the ways business owners need help getting organized is with the use of their calendars and To Do lists.
The question of the day at the grocery store is always, “Paper or Plastic?”
The question I ask my clients is, “Paper or electronic?”
And there is no single answer to this question – because sometimes the answer is BOTH!
My friend Susan emailed me yesterday with this same question regarding using a calendar. And here’s the honest answer I would give her: it totally depends.
And of course this would lead to MORE questions.
What are you used to using – paper or an electronic version?
Do you want/need to make a change because what you have isn’t working?
Do other people need to see your schedule and/or change it for you (like an assistant or team)?
Do you have good, reliable access to the internet if you choose an electronic version – especially one like Google (which lives in the Cloud)?
Honestly, part of me is ready to go back to paper and pencil. But the ease of inputting “recurring appointments” (like networking events, birthdays, and tasks) keeps me with the electronic version. Well, that and knowing an assistant needs to see the calendar “real time” as we make and move appointments around.
So, you have TONS of options – and it’s up to you to decide. And here are some of my favorites…
Google calendar online – This sync’s with most other calendaring software on your smartphones (like the Droid, Blackberry, or iPhone) or your iCal and Outlook calendars on your computers (mac or PC).
ToodleDo – lives in the Cloud and includes a To-Do list, calendar and reminders.
Productive Solution’s F.REE Planners – These are GREAT planners if you prefer the art of pen and paper!
So, take some time weighing your options (and there are TONS more than I listed here).
Paper or electronic – or a mix? If you have questions – don’t hesitate to reach out and ask.