Beat the Clock

"I prioritize by deadlines," says Caroline Beasley, the vice president and chief financial officer of Naples-based Beasley Broadcasting. Running one of the largest radio broadcasting companies in the country means constant awareness of critical deadlines. "Because we are publicly traded, we have certain government requirements-so I plan ahead and make sure we have done what we need to do to meet those filing deadlines," she says. "Anything that could impact us financially moves up to the top as a priority."

This businesswoman and mother is always up early. "My day starts at 5:15 in the morning, when I get up and work out, then help get the kids ready for school," she says. "I'm usually in the office around 8:30-9 a.m. and don't leave until 6:30-7 in the evening."

And once she hits the office, she stays. "I hardly ever go out of the office for lunch," she says, "The only time I leave is when I have a business meeting."

Working late isn't for everyone, but it's one of Beasley's secrets to getting things done. "Typically the staff leaves around 5:30," she says. "After that, our phones cut off and I have quiet time to get caught up on the day, to be prepared and plan ahead for the next day."

At the office, Beasley always has an open door. "My schedule stays very flexible," she says. "Throughout the day I get phone calls, people coming in and out; there are constant interruptions." But Beasley doesn't turn anyone away. "I have to be flexible; it's part of my job," she says. And when she does leave the office, Beasley's employees know she isn't out of reach. She frequently checks her e-mail at home before and after work.

"Actually, I usually check it before I go to bed, too," she admits. "I'm in constant contact through e-mail-and I check my phone messages wherever I am."

Beasley sums up her advice for business people who are managing limited time and many responsibilities: "They should surround themselves with quality people; always plan ahead, and set priorities."

-Katie S. Betz