Not Late, Not Long...On Time

What is the value of being “On Time”? In those areas of our lives where being prompt effects our activities as well as others, being “on time” is extremely important.
In business when we create wasteful waiting by others, we are not only wasting their time and money, we are showing disrespect for the value that others put on their time.
Let’s be perfectly clear, not all actions in our lives need to be precise. For example, if a party invitation says come around six then there is an intended flexibility for arrival. In contrast, if one chronically arrives late for a recurring business meeting, then he or she is doing a disservice to their peers and the organization. Chronic explanations like “traffic” and “family” are not legitimate justifications.
Additionally, this concept of being on time also applies to ending an event such as a meeting. Agendas should be timed and adhered to for the same reasons as given above for being tardy.
I was reminded recently of the importance of timeliness when attending a seminar delivered by an organization known for being very disciplined and time sensitive. With no apparent reason given to the audience, the activity started late. The subtle message to the audience was unmistakable. The organizers were clearly violating their own standards of timeliness and the cost of wasted time for the audience.
In conclusion, be aware and diligent in the preserving the value of starting and stopping scheduled events in an “on time” manner.
Thank You.

Ron Althaus