Productivity Maximization: Manager vs Maker Schedules

Introduction

• Productivity = Money earned for the time invested
• Speaker's net worth grew by better investing time
• Aims to teach how to manage time for high returns

Real-life Scenario and Types of Workers

• Example of how even short meetings can disrupt workflows
• Two types of workers:
  • Manager: Optimal with many small tasks/meetings
  • Maker: Optimal with large uninterrupted time blocks

Manager Schedule

• Divides time into smallest chunks possible
  • 20+ chunks/day (e.g., 15 mins to 90 mins)
• Empty time slot = lost opportunity
• Tasks include data collection, reporting, meetings, etc.
• Clear beginning and end to the day
• Goal: Maximize use of all time slots for high productivity

Maker Schedule

• Requires few large uninterrupted time blocks
• Focuses on activities requiring deep work (e.g., coding, writing)
  • Often tasks that are important but not urgent
• Issues with interruptions disrupting flow (Zeigarnik effect)
• Tasks may last weeks or months
• Variable end times
• Empty calendar = productive day

Conflict Between Manager and Maker Schedules

• Managers often unintentionally disrupt makers' productivity
• Makers see empty time slots as a productivity opportunity
• Importance of respecting each worker's schedule

Solutions for Better Time Investment

For Managers

1. Understand Costs: Coordinating and actual meeting time costs more for the maker
2. Value Makers' No: Understand a decline often means more productivity
3. Ask Team: Find out what makes an ideal productive day for them and plan accordingly

For Makers

1. Communicate Working Style: Explain how you work to managers
2. Designate Meeting Times: Have set times for meetings to minimize disruptions
3. Adjust Calendar: Configure calendar to reflect nature of work (maker or manager)
4. Communicate Availability: Inform when you’ll be unresponsive and stick to it
5. Double Time Management: Work double shifts initially to get both types of work done

For Organizations

1. Mandate Quiet Time: Entire teams avoid meetings and communication during certain periods
2. Measure on Output: Trust and verify work through output rather than constant check-ins
3. Schedule Reviews: Regularly review and optimize meeting schedules
4. Awareness: Spread awareness about different working styles
5. Culture of Meetings: Create a culture where meetings are not equated with productivity

Example Calendar Breakdown

• Speaker shared actual calendar demonstrating division between maker and manager days
• Emphasis on blocking entire days for uninterrupted work

Final Thoughts

• Emphasize understanding of both maker and manager schedules
• Aim for organizational implementation for higher returns on invested time and happier, more productive employees