8 Tips for Marketers to Increase Overall Efficiency in 2023
Let’s be honest. Who couldn’t use a little more time in their day?
The marketing landscape is volatile. We’re all scrambling to keep up with fast-paced campaigns, ever-changing consumer preferences, and the next-best technologies. It’s impossible to match the pace, but I’m a big proponent of working smarter, not harder.
Improve overall efficiency and save your sanity with these helpful tips.
#1: Set Attainable Goals
Goal-setting can increase productivity by 11 to 25 times. It’s psychology; when people feel they’re working toward something tangible, they’re more committed to seeing it through. Establish both short- and long-term benchmarks that motivate action.
#2: Define Cross-Department Workflow
Customers might be king, but Marketers are also responsible for managing the expectations of internal “clients,” as well. Improve operations by establishing a defined workflow between marketing and the rest of the departments in your organization. Standardize processes and educate colleagues about project requests, required assets, turnaround times, budget implications, and any other recurrent issues.
#3: Leverage AI Technology
I saw a LinkedIn post recently that said something like, “you will not be replaced by AI. You will be replaced by a human using AI.” That’s quite the wake-up call, right?
The application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology in marketing is diverse—data collection, personalization, content generation, digital advertising, chatbots, automated workflows, image recognition, and more. Evaluate current operations and determine where these tools can have the biggest impact on your results and resources.
#4: Streamline the Review & Approval Process
Here’s a shocking stat that is not shocking at all to any marketing professional:
92% of marketers cite approval delays as the top reason for missing deadlines
There will always be red tape. Make the hoops marginally easier to jump through by streamlining the review and approval process with clear communication. Define each phase, establish feedback expectations, and set concrete timelines.
#5 Cut the Fluff
Stop wasting time on items that don’t support your overarching objectives OR haven’t performed well in the past. Brush off the good ol’ 80/20 rule—80% of your results are a product of 20% of your actions. In other words, be strategic about how you invest your time.
#6 Consolidate Communication Methods
In recent years, WFH and hybrid work arrangements have propelled the creation and use of communication and collaboration apps for business. While these tools can positively impact productivity, juggling too many different platforms creates the opportunity for miscommunication, missed messages, and inefficiency. Reduce redundancies and create processes around how each channel should be used by your team.
#7 Schedule Deep Work
Unfortunately, some tasks are just tough and require more effort and concentration. Block time on your calendar (morning is recommended!), eliminate distractions, and get ‘er done. Combat procrastination by breaking larger projects into smaller to-dos and goals.
#8: Take Breaks
For goodness’ sake, step away from the computer. Pet your cat. Take a walk. Have a snack. Stare into the abyss. Whatever you need to do to rest your brain for a minute! Even the most highly efficient people can’t focus for eight hours straight. In fact, research shows that taking breaks can actually make you more productive.
Want some company during your coffee break? The next one’s on me.
