Maximizing efficiency in email, Slack, and calendar management

Here are the tips I use in my own workflow across email, Slack, and calendar.

Emails

1. Mobile app. Download the mobile app for your email service so you can manage your inbox on the go.
2. Archiving and inbox zero. Archive emails you’ve dealt with or no longer need to act on. Aim for inbox zero so your priorities stay visible.
3. Snooze. Snooze emails to clear them from your inbox and bring them back when you’re ready to act.
4. Unsubscribe. Unsubscribe from newsletters and mailing lists you no longer read.
5. Filters and labels. Set up filters and labels that sort and prioritize incoming emails automatically.
6. Acknowledgment replies. Reply promptly to let senders know you’ve received their email and are looking at it.

Slack

1. Install the apps. Keep Slack on your phone and desktop so you can reach your team wherever you are.
2. Mute channels. Mute low-priority channels and keep notifications on for the important ones.
3. Leave channels. Every so often, leave channels that are no longer relevant to your work or interests.
4. Sidebar sections. Group channels into sections by team, project, or topic so they’re easier to find.
5. Emoji acknowledgments. React with an emoji to acknowledge a message without typing a reply.
6. Slack status. Set your status so your team knows when you’re available and what you’re focused on.
7. Save for later. Save important messages or threads with Slack’s “save for later” feature.
8. Scheduled messages. Schedule messages to send later, so they land on time even when you’re offline.

Calendar

1. Sync across devices. Keep your calendar synced across your laptop and phone.
2. Mobile apps. Install the calendar app on your phone for quick access to your schedule and notifications.
3. RSVPs. RSVP to every invite so organizers know who’s coming.
4. Default reminders. Set default reminders for all events so you have time to prepare.
5. Arrive early. Join meetings 2-5 minutes before the start time.