I'm working from home for a new job, but to be honest, I don't have enough things to do. I offered to help my colleague and was told not to worry as there are sometimes plateaus. I don't want to look unproductive because I have to submit daily logs. I too am obsessed with “busy work”. Should I ask my boss for more work? Or will it look bad if I'm not busy?
I've never had an employee become grumpy by asking for more work. You don't have to think about how to stay busy at work. If you're like us, you're probably struggling to find time to take a break. I respect that you want to do more and look for ways to add value, and I'm sure your employer does the same. But instead of doing it on your own, let your boss know that you're underutilized and that you're trying to work together to do the best you can.
Share that you would like to take on more responsibility on a more permanent and formal basis as part of your job description. This way, you can demonstrate a commendable work ethic and earn recognition (and ultimately reward) for doing more. There is one caveat. If you don't have enough work to do and the other person isn't giving you more work, your boss may realize that they don't need the role, so they may quit their jobs unceremoniously. Please don't say that.
Gregory Giangrande has over 25 years of experience as a Chief Human Resources Officer. Listen to Greg every Wednesday at 9:35am iHeartRadio 710 WOR. Email: GoToGreg@NYPost.com. to follow: GoToGreg.com And even more LinkedIn.
