Time Management for Route Marketers

Planning the route and being efficient can be hilarious

Salespeople and route marketers, we know your pain. It’s a jungle out there with clock-watching gorillas, traffic jam elephants, and the ever-elusive prospect who’s as hard to catch as a greased pig at a county fair. But fear not! We’re here to sprinkle some humor into your daily grind and give you tips to manage your time like a pro (or at least like someone who occasionally wears pants to a Zoom meeting).

Plan Your Route Like a Bank Heist

Ever watch a heist movie and think, “Wow, those guys really know how to plan”? Channel your inner Danny Ocean. Plot your route with the precision of a jewelry thief. Instead of “Ocean’s Eleven,” think “Marketing’s Eleven.” Synchronize watches, map out your targets, and have a getaway route ready. And remember, unlike in the movies, you won’t need an alibi, just a decent GPS app.

The Art of Dodging Traffic: Become a Zen Master

Traffic can turn your schedule into a nightmare. Become one with the traffic, and if stuck, don’t stress. Use this time for important tasks like perfecting your karaoke skills or practicing your “client-winning” smile in the rearview mirror. Better yet, plan meetings during off-peak hours. Many prospects are very open to meeting during times that are easier to travel to!

Client Meetings: Less is More

When it comes to client meetings, remember, brevity is your best friend. Get to the point faster than a caffeinated squirrel. Start with the essentials, drop a couple funny stories to keep it lively, and wrap up before the client starts glancing at their watch. Pro tip: avoid the “just one more thing” trap. It’s a time vortex that will suck you in and spit you out an hour later. Almost all prospects aren’t interested until you make them interested.

Emails: Tame the Beast

Emails can be like a game of whack-a-mole. As soon as you tackle one, another pops up. Set specific times for checking and responding to emails. Think of it like email happy hour. Cheers to quick replies and an empty inbox! And for those lengthy email chains, remember: TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read) is a valid response. Summarize or schedule a call to avoid drowning in words. Keep it short. Keep it simple.

Technology: Your New Best Friend

Technology is here to save the day (and your sanity). Use route planning apps, CRM systems, and automation tools to streamline your work. If you’re still using a paper map and sticky notes, it’s time to step into the 21st century. Embrace your inner tech geek. And hey, if robots take over, at least you’ll be on the right side.

Multi-tasking: The Illusion of Productivity

Multi-tasking is like juggling chainsaws. Impressive if done right, disastrous if done wrong. Focus on one task at a time. Trust us, your brain will thank you. If you must multi-task, pair tasks wisely. Listening to a motivational podcast while driving? Good. Eating a sandwich while giving a presentation? Not so much. It’s been proven that no one is really capable to multi-tasking effectively.

The Power of “No”

Learn to say “no” with confidence. No to unnecessary meetings, no to time-wasting activities, and no to that extra slice of cake at the client’s office (okay, maybe not that last one). Saying no can free up time for what truly matters, like building relationships or enjoying a well-deserved nap.

Delegate Like a Boss

You don’t have to do everything yourself. Delegate tasks to your team, your assistant, or even your dog (okay, maybe not the dog). Delegation can be a game-changer. Trust others to handle smaller tasks while you focus on the big picture. Just make sure your dog isn’t your primary mail sorter. Even if you’re expected to do some “admin” work, be wise on when and how much. You are salesperson or route marketer, NOT office administration!

Celebrate Small Wins

Lastly, celebrate your victories, no matter how small. Finalized a relationship? Treat yourself. Finished your route on time? High-five yourself in the mirror. These small celebrations keep you motivated and remind you that you’re doing a great job, even if it doesn’t always feel that way.

Time management in sales, and in route marketing doesn’t have to be a tedious chore. Caution: if you are scatter-brained, or easily distracted by the “shiny red ball,” you’re going to have a difficult time being efficient and effective. With a bit of humor and a few practical strategies, you can conquer the clock and make every minute count.

Remember, planning is key, technology is your ally, and sometimes, it’s okay to laugh at the chaos. Now go forth, you time-managing wizard, and make your marketing day as smooth as butter on hot toast!

By Dick Wagner, Co-Founder The CREST Network, LLC

Nationally recognized coach, consultant, trainer, and speaker

Creator of the renowned PREP™ pre-disaster program

Owner of AskDickWagner.com BLOG