I thought the top five test preparation tips would be a topical article since our featured August Learning Series webinar is “Preparing for the CPP Exam.” However, during my research, I realized that the common test preparation tips also apply to our daily jobs: time management, self-motivation, self-discipline, problem solving/decision making, and energy. The payroll profession is a critical role in any organization, and it can be a stressful role as these are the people responsible for getting each employee’s paycheck correct and on time – the reason we all go to work. By simply using the top five test taking tips and applying those to your daily job, you can make your day less stressful.

Tip #1: Time Management

Time management is essential, but first you need to create the schedule that works best for you. Aware of how you use your time is important in creating a schedule. Do you need small blocks of time with frequent breaks, or do you prefer to work several hours at a time with a longer break? Your schedule may vary based on the day’s to-do list. Begin creating your schedule by writing down your assignments, jobs, responsibilities, and duties. Prioritize the list. Which assignments are time sensitive, high importance, or daily, weekly, monthly tasks? Mapping these out will make it easier to fit new projects into your schedule, such as reporting, analytics, end of year payroll, studying for your CPP exam, etc.

Tip #2: Self-Motivation

Take responsibility for your own work and take on risks to challenge yourself. There are internal and external motivations. Internal factors are more motivating, because these are your goals, wants, and values; if you are working for a promotion, a raise, or just self-gratification, you will take on tasks that will help you achieve your goals. (Getting your CPP certification can help with that promotion!) External motivations are outside factors; for example, if you don’t complete the task there will be negative consequences, including possible termination. You’ll do the task, but maybe you won’t do it as well as you could. Some companies may require you to get your CPP certification, so it may be more difficult to pass the exam if it is a requirement and not a choice. To make your professional life less stressful, make a list of all your responsibilities, and figure out how you can make each task apply to your personal goals. You will see better results all around.

Tip #3: Self-Discipline

Self-discipline is important for payroll professionals, because there are tight deadlines, and payroll often depends on other employees and managers for information to generate payroll, such as approved time cards with recorded hours worked and time-off. Payroll professionals have to follow a timeline to get payroll out on time, and if they don’t have accurate information, employees may be underpaid or overpaid – neither a desirable result. Payroll is responsible for obtaining the information, whether they send out electronic reminders, or they have to physically approach each manager to collect timesheets in a timely manner. When there are recurring tasks, it is best to set a specific time for that task. For example, you need to process timesheets every other Wednesday and you know it takes two hours; so you create a two-hour block of time every other Wednesday to process timesheets. Make sure you routinely start on time and finish on time for two months. Within two months, this will be a routine practice for you. Do this for each recurring task you have, whether it is gathering timesheets, sending out reminders, etc., and you will see increased productivity that allows you to take on additional responsibilities.

Tip #4: Problem Solving/Decision Making

We solve issues and make decisions everyday, whether we are on our personal or professional clock. From grocery shopping decisions to solving issues at the office, from what food to eat to what tools to use at work – we make decisions continuously throughout the day. Problem solving and decision making can be easy if you have a clear idea of your needs, wants, goals, desired outcomes, etc. When you have a plan in place, it is much easier to resolve issues in a manner that is inline with your goals.

Tip #5: Energy

We’ve all heard it for years…eat a healthy breakfast so you have the brain food and energy you need for the day.