ABSTRACT
Time planning allows the unit manager to be proactive, to foresee events and deal with them before they occur. The way the manager spends his/her time can be divided into three main areas: boss-imposed time, system-imposed time, and self-imposed time. As well as boss-, system-, or self-imposed time, the way the manager uses his/her time can be classified as on proactive, reactive or passive tasks. Time management requires a long-term commitment to working more effectively and focusing the manager's efforts on those tasks that prioritise the development and progress of the unit. The systematic unit management system approach recognises two different parts to the activity: developing the manager's plan; and implementing the plan. The chapter also outlines the five levels of employee initiatives: Level 1 – Waits to be told; Level 2 – Asks what to do; Level 3 – Recommends what to do; Level 4 – Takes action, reports immediately; and Level 5 – Takes action, reports routinely.
