If useful information is spread across emails, messages and scraps of paper, it can take longer to find it when you need it. Keeping a few clear notes in one place can make that easier.
Start with information you’ll use again
Think about the things you regularly need to look up or explain.
That could include:
- Answers to common customer questions.
- Steps for sorting a recurring website problem.
- Notes about what was agreed for a project.
- Instructions for updating a website.
Start with the information that would save you time next time you need it.
Write notes that will make sense later
A short note is fine, as long as you can understand it when you come back to it.
Explain what the note is about, what needs doing and anything that still needs checking. Add a date where it would help.
For example, “website fixed” won’t tell you much later. A note explaining what wasn’t working and what sorted it is more useful.
Make things easy to find
Use clear names and a few headings that suit your work, such as customer questions, website updates and project notes.
A document or notes app you already use is a reasonable starting point. The useful part is being able to find the right answer when you need it.
Keep private customer information separate from notes you plan to share publicly.
Check old notes before using them
Prices, services and website settings can change. Check that an older note is still accurate before relying on it or sending it to someone else.
Update anything that has changed, and make it clear if something is still uncertain.
Start with a few useful notes and add to them as you go. The aim is to make everyday work easier to manage.