In-basket meaning

An in-basket is a method of organizing and managing incoming tasks and responsibilities.


In-basket definitions

Word backwards teksab-ni
Part of speech The word "in-basket" is a compound noun.
Syllabic division in-bas-ket
Plural The plural of in-basket is in-baskets.
Total letters 8
Vogais (3) i,a,e
Consonants (5) n,b,s,k,t

In-Basket refers to a method used in business and management to assess a person's ability to handle day-to-day tasks and responsibilities. It is often used in the context of leadership development programs or recruitment processes to simulate real-life scenarios and evaluate a candidate's decision-making skills.

When participants are presented with an in-basket exercise, they are typically given a set of documents such as emails, memos, reports, and other relevant materials that they would find in their typical work environment. The goal is for the individual to prioritize tasks, make decisions, and respond to the various communication pieces effectively.

Benefits of In-Basket Exercises

One of the main advantages of using in-basket exercises is that they provide a realistic snapshot of how a person would perform in a particular role. By assessing how individuals handle different scenarios and manage their time, employers can gain valuable insights into their potential strengths and areas for development.

Key Components of an In-Basket Exercise

There are several key components that are typically included in an in-basket exercise. These may involve responding to emails from colleagues or superiors, prioritizing tasks based on deadlines and importance, making decisions on resource allocation, and handling conflict or challenging situations within a team.

Tips for Success

To excel in an in-basket exercise, it is important to read all the materials carefully, prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, delegate responsibilities where necessary, and communicate effectively with all stakeholders. Time management and critical thinking skills are also crucial for success.

In conclusion, in-basket exercises are a valuable tool for evaluating an individual's readiness for a particular role or position. By presenting candidates with real-life scenarios and assessing their responses, employers can make more informed decisions when it comes to recruitment, promotion, or leadership development initiatives.


In-basket Examples

  1. She placed the stack of papers in the in-basket on her desk.
  2. The in-basket by the door was overflowing with mail.
  3. He sorted through the in-basket to find the important documents.
  4. The assistant transferred the files from the out-basket to the in-basket.
  5. She placed the completed forms in the in-basket for processing.
  6. The teacher left instructions for the students in the in-basket.
  7. He emptied the in-basket before leaving for the day.
  8. The secretary organized the paperwork in the in-basket alphabetically.
  9. The in-basket on the kitchen counter was full of bills that needed to be paid.
  10. She rummaged through the in-basket looking for the missing report.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 02/04/2024 - 13:02:03