Did you know that distractions consume an average of 2.1 hourseach day? What a waste of time!

And, to make matters worse, getting your mind back on trackafter you've been interrupted is a real challenge. It can take from5 to 25 minutes to get back to the task at hand after even a minorinterruption like a phone call, a quick e-mail check or a game ofsolitaire on your cell phone — which is my downfall.

In my new book, Agile Selling, I share numerousideas to help you deal with distractions without sounding like atotal jerk.

Here are a few ways to increase your sales productivity:

1. Start by focusing on prevention.

Personally, when I'm really working on something, my office dooris closed. To keep people from popping in, I even have a “do notdisturb” sign where I add in timeframes. It's easier to focus onpreventing interruptions than being interrupted and then trying toget back on track.

2. If you're in a busy office, wearheadphones.

And, if people still feel like it's okay to interrupt, tape a“do not disturb” sign on your back.

3. Change your location.

Don't be afraid to move to a different area, like a conferenceroom or a coffee shop. Just get yourself away from those whointerrupt you.

But sometimes even those strategies don't work. Here'swhat you do then:

Think about all the times you've been interrupted by a colleaguewho says, “Got a few minutes?” or “I have a quick question.” Ifthat happens a lot, you need to have a response ready. Here's whatyou say: “Is it critical to talk now or can it wait for 60minutes?”

At first you may feel rude doing this, but the truth is mostthings aren't urgent; they can wait. You have to remember that yourtime is valuable. Even a short interruption can cost you asignificant amount of time — that you'll never, ever getback.

Proactively dealing with distractions is one of the best ways toadd more hours to your overloaded day.

When you proactively deal with distractions, you'll be able toget a whole lot more done while you're at work. And, best of all,you'll have some free time again.

Related: 4 secrets to being exceptionallyproductive

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