If you contract for service, don't always go for lowest price. Indicate that you are looking for a long-term relationship, and that you expect the specialist to save you time, not cost you time. Provide proper and ongoing training so that the person can become very good at it, not just mediocre. Handling Interruptions Interruptions, be they on the phone or in person can be frustrating and time consuming. Apart from the time spend ON the interruption, it may take time after the interruption for you to regain your original level of concentration and focus.
Some tips follow.
Don't have one here and one there, but consolidate them, one after the other if possible. This will help keep each individual meeting to a reasonable and pre-defined length. Inform secretary or relevant people when each meeting will end and make it clear that you do not wish to be interrupted, and when you will be available. Make sure staff are aware that this time is sacrosanct and should not be intruded upon unless there is a dire emergency. You don't NEED to see or talk to people every time THEY want you.