Years ago when I first started out in the world the world many years ago there were certain “givens”—a rolodex and a tickler file were typical “office tools.” With the advent of computers and increased technology, we now have various versions of databases that have replaced the heavy card-stock rolodex, and we can put all our schedules and reminders on the computer. Still, I think there can still be uses for variations of the good old-fashioned tickler file.
Being able to schedule things for a later date or set up systems to remind ourselves of what we need to do in the future is a handy approach to even the smallest of home-businesses. While I find being able to schedule things into my computer calendar is great and it even gives me alerts when the deadline is approaching, I do still like to use physical filing and reminders for some things: Following up on submission requests or any queries I have done—I file copies of the paperwork and remind myself to check things on a monthly basis. Other businesses might find that following up on prospects and customers or checking up on an inquiry can be “tracked” using a tickler file system. You can arrange your contacts by weeks or months (or days) and make follow-up calls based on what is in the daily file.
I am certain I am not the only “oldster” out here who is still using variations of a tickler file—even with all the technology and scheduling ease that is available to me. I definitely think it is still a valuable way to keep me on track and keep my business running smoothly. I would love to hear from others of you who are still using variations of tickler files for your home businesses—if you haven’t gone completely the way of technology and palm pilots—how are you using a “tickler”?
Also: When People Ask for Information, Be Sure to Follow Up
Collecting Names and Prospects Using a Drawing