What is structure really?

Do you associate work structure with sitting at a desk and handling administration? Then it might be time to reconsider. Being creative and fast, while lacking structure, is truly a way to become overwhelmed. Keeping things in your head and filling your working memory is an effective way to exhaust your energy. Without structure, obligations, “shoulds,” thoughts, and ideas tend to circulate aimlessly and enter our field of vision, distracting us at any time—especially when we relax or try to fall asleep at night. We won’t go into the stress this can cause here.

However, it takes energy to remember things that haven’t landed on the hard drive. Therefore, consider your work structure as a hard drive, where everything is stored effortlessly, and you can retrieve it when needed.

How does one work in a structured way?

Having a work structure means creating and maintaining an organized and systematic method for performing tasks. It involves planning, prioritizing, and executing work efficiently and goal-orientedly. Here are some key aspects of what it means to have a work structure:

1. Planning

Planning is the foundation of good work structure. This includes setting long-term and short-term goals, creating detailed plans for achieving these goals, and identifying the resources needed. Planning helps break down large projects into smaller, manageable steps and anticipate potential obstacles and how to overcome them.

2. Prioritization

Prioritization means determining which tasks are the most important and time-critical. By prioritizing, one can focus time and energy on the tasks that have the greatest impact on the goals. This includes making a to-do list, ranking tasks by importance and urgency, and delegating tasks when appropriate.

3. Time Management

Effective time management is crucial for maintaining work structure. This involves scheduling tasks, setting deadlines, and using calendars or digital tools to keep track of meetings and important dates. Time management helps minimize procrastination and ensures that work is completed on time.

4. Organization

Organization involves keeping the workspace and tools in order. This can include having a well-organized desk, using filing systems to keep track of documents, and using digital tools to manage information and communication. An organized work environment can reduce stress and increase productivity.

5. Follow-up and Evaluation

A critical part of work structure is regularly following up and evaluating one’s work. This means reviewing progress towards set goals, identifying what is working well and what can be improved, and making adjustments as needed. Regular follow-up helps keep work on track and continuously improve work methods.

6. Flexibility

While a structured work method is important, it is also necessary to be flexible and adapt to changes and unexpected challenges. This means being prepared to reprioritize tasks, adjust plans, and find creative solutions when things do not go as planned.

Jobmatch Talent

Jobmatch Talent is an excellent work-related testing tool that, among other things, can indicate how naturally it is for the test-taker to act in a structured manner.

Why is structure important?

Having a clear work structure has many benefits, including increased productivity, reduced stress, and better work-life balance. It helps create a sense of control and predictability in work, which can lead to higher job satisfaction and better results.

In summary, work structure means having a thoughtful and systematic approach to managing tasks, which helps achieve goals in an efficient and organized manner.