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Should I try and remain seated as much as possible while at a desk job?
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I have been observing my supervisor and found that he doesn't move around much. In contrast, I move around the office quite often. I go to the restroom, go to the pantry to refill my tea about 5-6 times a day, etc
Maybe sitting in front of the computer all day long gives an impression that you are working hard.
Should I be using my supervisor as a role model to follow, and trying to restrain my activities? Why or why not?
work-environment
edited Jun 15 '12 at 1:43
yoozer8
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asked Jun 14 '12 at 9:24
lamwaiman1988
94421017
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up vote
8
down vote
favorite
I have been observing my supervisor and found that he doesn't move around much. In contrast, I move around the office quite often. I go to the restroom, go to the pantry to refill my tea about 5-6 times a day, etc
Maybe sitting in front of the computer all day long gives an impression that you are working hard.
Should I be using my supervisor as a role model to follow, and trying to restrain my activities? Why or why not?
work-environment
edited Jun 15 '12 at 1:43
yoozer8
4,10442955
asked Jun 14 '12 at 9:24
lamwaiman1988
94421017
add a comment |Â
up vote
8
down vote
favorite
up vote
8
down vote
favorite
I have been observing my supervisor and found that he doesn't move around much. In contrast, I move around the office quite often. I go to the restroom, go to the pantry to refill my tea about 5-6 times a day, etc
Maybe sitting in front of the computer all day long gives an impression that you are working hard.
Should I be using my supervisor as a role model to follow, and trying to restrain my activities? Why or why not?
work-environment
edited Jun 15 '12 at 1:43
yoozer8
4,10442955
asked Jun 14 '12 at 9:24
lamwaiman1988
94421017
I have been observing my supervisor and found that he doesn't move around much. In contrast, I move around the office quite often. I go to the restroom, go to the pantry to refill my tea about 5-6 times a day, etc
Maybe sitting in front of the computer all day long gives an impression that you are working hard.
Should I be using my supervisor as a role model to follow, and trying to restrain my activities? Why or why not?
work-environment
edited Jun 15 '12 at 1:43
yoozer8
4,10442955
asked Jun 14 '12 at 9:24
lamwaiman1988
94421017
edited Jun 15 '12 at 1:43
yoozer8
4,10442955
edited Jun 15 '12 at 1:43
yoozer8
4,10442955
edited Jun 15 '12 at 1:43
yoozer8
4,10442955
4,10442955
asked Jun 14 '12 at 9:24
lamwaiman1988
94421017
asked Jun 14 '12 at 9:24
lamwaiman1988
94421017
asked Jun 14 '12 at 9:24
lamwaiman1988
94421017
94421017
add a comment |Â
add a comment |Â
6 Answers
6
active
oldest
votes
up vote
26
down vote
accepted
Certainly being at your workstation all day gives the impression of working hard, but it's easy to "slack off" while still appearing to be working, and not moving all day can be bad for your health.
What should count is that you finish your allotted work within the agreed time frame (what ever that happens to be).
If you are working with a computer you should be taking 5 minute breaks every hour anyway to refocus your eyes on something else other than your screen. You don't have to get up from your desk to do this, but if you combine it with a toilet break or a visit to the kitchen to get a drink then that's not a problem.
answered Jun 14 '12 at 11:20
ChrisF
8,56423957
14
but it's easy to "slack off" while still appearing to be workingYou mean like I'm doing right now? ;P
– yannis
Jun 14 '12 at 13:01
@YannisRizos - probably :)
– ChrisF
Jun 14 '12 at 13:01
1
+1 forit's easy to "slack off" while still appearing to be working, I've seen someone fall asleep at their desk with their head resting on their hand, facing the screen, looking very pensive and thoughtful. The only way to tell is that their eyes are closed, and for that you have to get right up beside them. Someone walking down the corridor past their desk would never know. I'd give another +1 for5 minute breaks every hour anyway to refocus your eyes on something else other than your screenif I could.
– FrustratedWithFormsDesigner
Jun 14 '12 at 13:45
+1 for ChrisF's answer. But I'd also add that sitting for extended periods of time is not what our bodies are designed to do. So I'd say that it's a good thing that OP is getting up and walking around a little. Also, I've found that going for a short walk helps to clear my mind and focus on the task at hand. I've had plenty of House-like moments while replenishing my coffee, which allowed me to fix that "one last bug" (tm) when I got back to my desk
– Jamie Taylor
Jul 3 '13 at 15:31
add a comment |Â
up vote
7
down vote
Your boss is modeling a style that could send you to an early grave.
That seems more important than making my workstyle an exact match to my boss's. Most people accept that different people will have different styles of work within certain boundaries. Some people drink coffee; others don't. Some people like to listen to headphones; others don't. Some people bring their lunch; others go out or skip lunch. It seems what you're talking about falls within the boundaries of legitimate diversity of styles.
Rather and adapting your style to his lead, it seems he should be following your model.
answered Jun 14 '12 at 14:57
JohnMcG
1,8561818
add a comment |Â
up vote
1
down vote
At some point, pretending you're working can be harder than the work itself. I found a co-worker sitting in a chair and not the toilet in the bathroom and reading a newspaper. He has his own office.
Make sure you understand what your supervisor wants and whether or not he/she feels like you are meeting those expectations. Unfortunately, they build up a general opinion and rarely have some objective and quantifiable account of your work. If they have to lay people off, they won't target the employees that make their job easier.
add a comment |Â
up vote
1
down vote
It's easy to appear busy at the workstation staring at the PC everyday (like Alt-Tab'bing to a spreadsheet when your boss passes by), but that's bad practice, especially if you aren't finishing your work in time.
I've seen quite a few people at work not doing a lot of stuff all day long and jumping into their seats once the boss arrives for work in my previous workplace, but I'm not sure if that applies to all companies.
However, if you want a better chance at promotion or a pay rise, here are a few things you could do.
Finish your given work on time, or faster.
Finishing your work on time helps to make it clear that you are interested in working for your company and that you are able to handle the workload easily.
Faster is sometimes better (although not always), but in some companies they might give you fresh work to do without recognizing your ability to work harder than others.
However, that doesn't mean your work should be full of errors. Rely on the saying - "Do it once, do it good!".
Have a break
Taking breaks helps the mind break away from the monotony that is the constant usage of computers and documents. Make it like a reward for working hard for that past hour or two, breathe some fresh air, drink a cup of tea or do whatever you like (just don't breach company rules).
Giving suggestions to improve workflow
If your company allows this, though (and also if you have stayed at the company long enough). Many companies are sufficient enough to handle themselves and may list you as a vigilante that is out to get the company if you're a new hire trying to change things around the company. You might end up getting burnt on a stake.
Make sure you're visible in the workplace
Hey, nobody is going to notice what you're doing for the company if you're going to hide in that pigeon hole everyday without talking to anyone, right?
Get up and talk to people, communicate, try not to make too many enemies and you might be well on your way to be noticed by the supervisor. Remember, you might want to suck up to only the supervisor, but the angry mob forming below you is going to drag you back down. Be nice.
edited Jun 28 '13 at 19:56
Peter Mortensen
45547
answered Jun 14 '12 at 13:18
Kyle Yeo
1296
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
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You shouldn't change your work habits if they don't impact your work negatively. As long as you feel comfortable with them and get your assignments done on time, they shouldn't be an issue. If you forced yourself into taking fewer breaks, it could lead to stress, and it would make you focus on how uncomfortable you feel, rather than taking your mind off those issues so you can concentrate on the task at hand. If with time you find out that your break habits are changing, those should come organically, rather than being forced upon you by someone else or yourself.
All in all, have breaks as you are comfortable, as long as you are getting your work done on time and not "slacking off" for an extended period of time at once (which can be viewed negatively).
edited Jun 28 '13 at 19:56
yoozer8
4,10442955
answered Jun 14 '12 at 13:19
ThePiachu
95511023
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up vote
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I work at home, and I sit a lot. I am having pain in my feet that some people describe as gout and others indicate are due to atrophy in leg muscles. Sitting for long periods is widely viewed as unhealthy. CDC Study
answered Jun 28 '13 at 22:21
Meredith Poor
8,8661730
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6 Answers
6
active
oldest
votes
6 Answers
6
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
up vote
26
down vote
accepted
Certainly being at your workstation all day gives the impression of working hard, but it's easy to "slack off" while still appearing to be working, and not moving all day can be bad for your health.
What should count is that you finish your allotted work within the agreed time frame (what ever that happens to be).
If you are working with a computer you should be taking 5 minute breaks every hour anyway to refocus your eyes on something else other than your screen. You don't have to get up from your desk to do this, but if you combine it with a toilet break or a visit to the kitchen to get a drink then that's not a problem.
answered Jun 14 '12 at 11:20
ChrisF
8,56423957
14
but it's easy to "slack off" while still appearing to be workingYou mean like I'm doing right now? ;P
– yannis
Jun 14 '12 at 13:01
@YannisRizos - probably :)
– ChrisF
Jun 14 '12 at 13:01
1
+1 forit's easy to "slack off" while still appearing to be working, I've seen someone fall asleep at their desk with their head resting on their hand, facing the screen, looking very pensive and thoughtful. The only way to tell is that their eyes are closed, and for that you have to get right up beside them. Someone walking down the corridor past their desk would never know. I'd give another +1 for5 minute breaks every hour anyway to refocus your eyes on something else other than your screenif I could.
– FrustratedWithFormsDesigner
Jun 14 '12 at 13:45
+1 for ChrisF's answer. But I'd also add that sitting for extended periods of time is not what our bodies are designed to do. So I'd say that it's a good thing that OP is getting up and walking around a little. Also, I've found that going for a short walk helps to clear my mind and focus on the task at hand. I've had plenty of House-like moments while replenishing my coffee, which allowed me to fix that "one last bug" (tm) when I got back to my desk
– Jamie Taylor
Jul 3 '13 at 15:31
add a comment |Â
up vote
26
down vote
accepted
Certainly being at your workstation all day gives the impression of working hard, but it's easy to "slack off" while still appearing to be working, and not moving all day can be bad for your health.
What should count is that you finish your allotted work within the agreed time frame (what ever that happens to be).
If you are working with a computer you should be taking 5 minute breaks every hour anyway to refocus your eyes on something else other than your screen. You don't have to get up from your desk to do this, but if you combine it with a toilet break or a visit to the kitchen to get a drink then that's not a problem.
answered Jun 14 '12 at 11:20
ChrisF
8,56423957
14
but it's easy to "slack off" while still appearing to be workingYou mean like I'm doing right now? ;P
– yannis
Jun 14 '12 at 13:01
@YannisRizos - probably :)
– ChrisF
Jun 14 '12 at 13:01
1
+1 forit's easy to "slack off" while still appearing to be working, I've seen someone fall asleep at their desk with their head resting on their hand, facing the screen, looking very pensive and thoughtful. The only way to tell is that their eyes are closed, and for that you have to get right up beside them. Someone walking down the corridor past their desk would never know. I'd give another +1 for5 minute breaks every hour anyway to refocus your eyes on something else other than your screenif I could.
– FrustratedWithFormsDesigner
Jun 14 '12 at 13:45
+1 for ChrisF's answer. But I'd also add that sitting for extended periods of time is not what our bodies are designed to do. So I'd say that it's a good thing that OP is getting up and walking around a little. Also, I've found that going for a short walk helps to clear my mind and focus on the task at hand. I've had plenty of House-like moments while replenishing my coffee, which allowed me to fix that "one last bug" (tm) when I got back to my desk
– Jamie Taylor
Jul 3 '13 at 15:31
add a comment |Â
up vote
26
down vote
accepted
up vote
26
down vote
accepted
Certainly being at your workstation all day gives the impression of working hard, but it's easy to "slack off" while still appearing to be working, and not moving all day can be bad for your health.
What should count is that you finish your allotted work within the agreed time frame (what ever that happens to be).
If you are working with a computer you should be taking 5 minute breaks every hour anyway to refocus your eyes on something else other than your screen. You don't have to get up from your desk to do this, but if you combine it with a toilet break or a visit to the kitchen to get a drink then that's not a problem.
answered Jun 14 '12 at 11:20
ChrisF
8,56423957
Certainly being at your workstation all day gives the impression of working hard, but it's easy to "slack off" while still appearing to be working, and not moving all day can be bad for your health.
What should count is that you finish your allotted work within the agreed time frame (what ever that happens to be).
If you are working with a computer you should be taking 5 minute breaks every hour anyway to refocus your eyes on something else other than your screen. You don't have to get up from your desk to do this, but if you combine it with a toilet break or a visit to the kitchen to get a drink then that's not a problem.
answered Jun 14 '12 at 11:20
ChrisF
8,56423957
answered Jun 14 '12 at 11:20
ChrisF
8,56423957
answered Jun 14 '12 at 11:20
ChrisF
8,56423957
answered Jun 14 '12 at 11:20
ChrisF
8,56423957
8,56423957
14
but it's easy to "slack off" while still appearing to be workingYou mean like I'm doing right now? ;P
– yannis
Jun 14 '12 at 13:01
@YannisRizos - probably :)
– ChrisF
Jun 14 '12 at 13:01
1
+1 forit's easy to "slack off" while still appearing to be working, I've seen someone fall asleep at their desk with their head resting on their hand, facing the screen, looking very pensive and thoughtful. The only way to tell is that their eyes are closed, and for that you have to get right up beside them. Someone walking down the corridor past their desk would never know. I'd give another +1 for5 minute breaks every hour anyway to refocus your eyes on something else other than your screenif I could.
– FrustratedWithFormsDesigner
Jun 14 '12 at 13:45
+1 for ChrisF's answer. But I'd also add that sitting for extended periods of time is not what our bodies are designed to do. So I'd say that it's a good thing that OP is getting up and walking around a little. Also, I've found that going for a short walk helps to clear my mind and focus on the task at hand. I've had plenty of House-like moments while replenishing my coffee, which allowed me to fix that "one last bug" (tm) when I got back to my desk
– Jamie Taylor
Jul 3 '13 at 15:31
add a comment |Â
14
but it's easy to "slack off" while still appearing to be workingYou mean like I'm doing right now? ;P
– yannis
Jun 14 '12 at 13:01
@YannisRizos - probably :)
– ChrisF
Jun 14 '12 at 13:01
1
+1 forit's easy to "slack off" while still appearing to be working, I've seen someone fall asleep at their desk with their head resting on their hand, facing the screen, looking very pensive and thoughtful. The only way to tell is that their eyes are closed, and for that you have to get right up beside them. Someone walking down the corridor past their desk would never know. I'd give another +1 for5 minute breaks every hour anyway to refocus your eyes on something else other than your screenif I could.
– FrustratedWithFormsDesigner
Jun 14 '12 at 13:45
+1 for ChrisF's answer. But I'd also add that sitting for extended periods of time is not what our bodies are designed to do. So I'd say that it's a good thing that OP is getting up and walking around a little. Also, I've found that going for a short walk helps to clear my mind and focus on the task at hand. I've had plenty of House-like moments while replenishing my coffee, which allowed me to fix that "one last bug" (tm) when I got back to my desk
– Jamie Taylor
Jul 3 '13 at 15:31
14
14
but it's easy to "slack off" while still appearing to be working You mean like I'm doing right now? ;P– yannis
Jun 14 '12 at 13:01
but it's easy to "slack off" while still appearing to be working You mean like I'm doing right now? ;P– yannis
Jun 14 '12 at 13:01
@YannisRizos - probably :)
– ChrisF
Jun 14 '12 at 13:01
@YannisRizos - probably :)
– ChrisF
Jun 14 '12 at 13:01
1
1
+1 for
it's easy to "slack off" while still appearing to be working, I've seen someone fall asleep at their desk with their head resting on their hand, facing the screen, looking very pensive and thoughtful. The only way to tell is that their eyes are closed, and for that you have to get right up beside them. Someone walking down the corridor past their desk would never know. I'd give another +1 for 5 minute breaks every hour anyway to refocus your eyes on something else other than your screen if I could.– FrustratedWithFormsDesigner
Jun 14 '12 at 13:45
+1 for
it's easy to "slack off" while still appearing to be working, I've seen someone fall asleep at their desk with their head resting on their hand, facing the screen, looking very pensive and thoughtful. The only way to tell is that their eyes are closed, and for that you have to get right up beside them. Someone walking down the corridor past their desk would never know. I'd give another +1 for 5 minute breaks every hour anyway to refocus your eyes on something else other than your screen if I could.– FrustratedWithFormsDesigner
Jun 14 '12 at 13:45
+1 for ChrisF's answer. But I'd also add that sitting for extended periods of time is not what our bodies are designed to do. So I'd say that it's a good thing that OP is getting up and walking around a little. Also, I've found that going for a short walk helps to clear my mind and focus on the task at hand. I've had plenty of House-like moments while replenishing my coffee, which allowed me to fix that "one last bug" (tm) when I got back to my desk
– Jamie Taylor
Jul 3 '13 at 15:31
+1 for ChrisF's answer. But I'd also add that sitting for extended periods of time is not what our bodies are designed to do. So I'd say that it's a good thing that OP is getting up and walking around a little. Also, I've found that going for a short walk helps to clear my mind and focus on the task at hand. I've had plenty of House-like moments while replenishing my coffee, which allowed me to fix that "one last bug" (tm) when I got back to my desk
– Jamie Taylor
Jul 3 '13 at 15:31
add a comment |Â
up vote
7
down vote
Your boss is modeling a style that could send you to an early grave.
That seems more important than making my workstyle an exact match to my boss's. Most people accept that different people will have different styles of work within certain boundaries. Some people drink coffee; others don't. Some people like to listen to headphones; others don't. Some people bring their lunch; others go out or skip lunch. It seems what you're talking about falls within the boundaries of legitimate diversity of styles.
Rather and adapting your style to his lead, it seems he should be following your model.
answered Jun 14 '12 at 14:57
JohnMcG
1,8561818
add a comment |Â
up vote
7
down vote
Your boss is modeling a style that could send you to an early grave.
That seems more important than making my workstyle an exact match to my boss's. Most people accept that different people will have different styles of work within certain boundaries. Some people drink coffee; others don't. Some people like to listen to headphones; others don't. Some people bring their lunch; others go out or skip lunch. It seems what you're talking about falls within the boundaries of legitimate diversity of styles.
Rather and adapting your style to his lead, it seems he should be following your model.
answered Jun 14 '12 at 14:57
JohnMcG
1,8561818
add a comment |Â
up vote
7
down vote
up vote
7
down vote
Your boss is modeling a style that could send you to an early grave.
That seems more important than making my workstyle an exact match to my boss's. Most people accept that different people will have different styles of work within certain boundaries. Some people drink coffee; others don't. Some people like to listen to headphones; others don't. Some people bring their lunch; others go out or skip lunch. It seems what you're talking about falls within the boundaries of legitimate diversity of styles.
Rather and adapting your style to his lead, it seems he should be following your model.
answered Jun 14 '12 at 14:57
JohnMcG
1,8561818
Your boss is modeling a style that could send you to an early grave.
That seems more important than making my workstyle an exact match to my boss's. Most people accept that different people will have different styles of work within certain boundaries. Some people drink coffee; others don't. Some people like to listen to headphones; others don't. Some people bring their lunch; others go out or skip lunch. It seems what you're talking about falls within the boundaries of legitimate diversity of styles.
Rather and adapting your style to his lead, it seems he should be following your model.
answered Jun 14 '12 at 14:57
JohnMcG
1,8561818
answered Jun 14 '12 at 14:57
JohnMcG
1,8561818
answered Jun 14 '12 at 14:57
JohnMcG
1,8561818
answered Jun 14 '12 at 14:57
JohnMcG
1,8561818
1,8561818
add a comment |Â
add a comment |Â
up vote
1
down vote
At some point, pretending you're working can be harder than the work itself. I found a co-worker sitting in a chair and not the toilet in the bathroom and reading a newspaper. He has his own office.
Make sure you understand what your supervisor wants and whether or not he/she feels like you are meeting those expectations. Unfortunately, they build up a general opinion and rarely have some objective and quantifiable account of your work. If they have to lay people off, they won't target the employees that make their job easier.
add a comment |Â
up vote
1
down vote
At some point, pretending you're working can be harder than the work itself. I found a co-worker sitting in a chair and not the toilet in the bathroom and reading a newspaper. He has his own office.
Make sure you understand what your supervisor wants and whether or not he/she feels like you are meeting those expectations. Unfortunately, they build up a general opinion and rarely have some objective and quantifiable account of your work. If they have to lay people off, they won't target the employees that make their job easier.
add a comment |Â
up vote
1
down vote
up vote
1
down vote
At some point, pretending you're working can be harder than the work itself. I found a co-worker sitting in a chair and not the toilet in the bathroom and reading a newspaper. He has his own office.
Make sure you understand what your supervisor wants and whether or not he/she feels like you are meeting those expectations. Unfortunately, they build up a general opinion and rarely have some objective and quantifiable account of your work. If they have to lay people off, they won't target the employees that make their job easier.
At some point, pretending you're working can be harder than the work itself. I found a co-worker sitting in a chair and not the toilet in the bathroom and reading a newspaper. He has his own office.
Make sure you understand what your supervisor wants and whether or not he/she feels like you are meeting those expectations. Unfortunately, they build up a general opinion and rarely have some objective and quantifiable account of your work. If they have to lay people off, they won't target the employees that make their job easier.
answered Jun 14 '12 at 14:23
user8365
add a comment |Â
add a comment |Â
up vote
1
down vote
It's easy to appear busy at the workstation staring at the PC everyday (like Alt-Tab'bing to a spreadsheet when your boss passes by), but that's bad practice, especially if you aren't finishing your work in time.
I've seen quite a few people at work not doing a lot of stuff all day long and jumping into their seats once the boss arrives for work in my previous workplace, but I'm not sure if that applies to all companies.
However, if you want a better chance at promotion or a pay rise, here are a few things you could do.
Finish your given work on time, or faster.
Finishing your work on time helps to make it clear that you are interested in working for your company and that you are able to handle the workload easily.
Faster is sometimes better (although not always), but in some companies they might give you fresh work to do without recognizing your ability to work harder than others.
However, that doesn't mean your work should be full of errors. Rely on the saying - "Do it once, do it good!".
Have a break
Taking breaks helps the mind break away from the monotony that is the constant usage of computers and documents. Make it like a reward for working hard for that past hour or two, breathe some fresh air, drink a cup of tea or do whatever you like (just don't breach company rules).
Giving suggestions to improve workflow
If your company allows this, though (and also if you have stayed at the company long enough). Many companies are sufficient enough to handle themselves and may list you as a vigilante that is out to get the company if you're a new hire trying to change things around the company. You might end up getting burnt on a stake.
Make sure you're visible in the workplace
Hey, nobody is going to notice what you're doing for the company if you're going to hide in that pigeon hole everyday without talking to anyone, right?
Get up and talk to people, communicate, try not to make too many enemies and you might be well on your way to be noticed by the supervisor. Remember, you might want to suck up to only the supervisor, but the angry mob forming below you is going to drag you back down. Be nice.
edited Jun 28 '13 at 19:56
Peter Mortensen
45547
answered Jun 14 '12 at 13:18
Kyle Yeo
1296
add a comment |Â
up vote
1
down vote
It's easy to appear busy at the workstation staring at the PC everyday (like Alt-Tab'bing to a spreadsheet when your boss passes by), but that's bad practice, especially if you aren't finishing your work in time.
I've seen quite a few people at work not doing a lot of stuff all day long and jumping into their seats once the boss arrives for work in my previous workplace, but I'm not sure if that applies to all companies.
However, if you want a better chance at promotion or a pay rise, here are a few things you could do.
Finish your given work on time, or faster.
Finishing your work on time helps to make it clear that you are interested in working for your company and that you are able to handle the workload easily.
Faster is sometimes better (although not always), but in some companies they might give you fresh work to do without recognizing your ability to work harder than others.
However, that doesn't mean your work should be full of errors. Rely on the saying - "Do it once, do it good!".
Have a break
Taking breaks helps the mind break away from the monotony that is the constant usage of computers and documents. Make it like a reward for working hard for that past hour or two, breathe some fresh air, drink a cup of tea or do whatever you like (just don't breach company rules).
Giving suggestions to improve workflow
If your company allows this, though (and also if you have stayed at the company long enough). Many companies are sufficient enough to handle themselves and may list you as a vigilante that is out to get the company if you're a new hire trying to change things around the company. You might end up getting burnt on a stake.
Make sure you're visible in the workplace
Hey, nobody is going to notice what you're doing for the company if you're going to hide in that pigeon hole everyday without talking to anyone, right?
Get up and talk to people, communicate, try not to make too many enemies and you might be well on your way to be noticed by the supervisor. Remember, you might want to suck up to only the supervisor, but the angry mob forming below you is going to drag you back down. Be nice.
edited Jun 28 '13 at 19:56
Peter Mortensen
45547
answered Jun 14 '12 at 13:18
Kyle Yeo
1296
add a comment |Â
up vote
1
down vote
up vote
1
down vote
It's easy to appear busy at the workstation staring at the PC everyday (like Alt-Tab'bing to a spreadsheet when your boss passes by), but that's bad practice, especially if you aren't finishing your work in time.
I've seen quite a few people at work not doing a lot of stuff all day long and jumping into their seats once the boss arrives for work in my previous workplace, but I'm not sure if that applies to all companies.
However, if you want a better chance at promotion or a pay rise, here are a few things you could do.
Finish your given work on time, or faster.
Finishing your work on time helps to make it clear that you are interested in working for your company and that you are able to handle the workload easily.
Faster is sometimes better (although not always), but in some companies they might give you fresh work to do without recognizing your ability to work harder than others.
However, that doesn't mean your work should be full of errors. Rely on the saying - "Do it once, do it good!".
Have a break
Taking breaks helps the mind break away from the monotony that is the constant usage of computers and documents. Make it like a reward for working hard for that past hour or two, breathe some fresh air, drink a cup of tea or do whatever you like (just don't breach company rules).
Giving suggestions to improve workflow
If your company allows this, though (and also if you have stayed at the company long enough). Many companies are sufficient enough to handle themselves and may list you as a vigilante that is out to get the company if you're a new hire trying to change things around the company. You might end up getting burnt on a stake.
Make sure you're visible in the workplace
Hey, nobody is going to notice what you're doing for the company if you're going to hide in that pigeon hole everyday without talking to anyone, right?
Get up and talk to people, communicate, try not to make too many enemies and you might be well on your way to be noticed by the supervisor. Remember, you might want to suck up to only the supervisor, but the angry mob forming below you is going to drag you back down. Be nice.
edited Jun 28 '13 at 19:56
Peter Mortensen
45547
answered Jun 14 '12 at 13:18
Kyle Yeo
1296
It's easy to appear busy at the workstation staring at the PC everyday (like Alt-Tab'bing to a spreadsheet when your boss passes by), but that's bad practice, especially if you aren't finishing your work in time.
I've seen quite a few people at work not doing a lot of stuff all day long and jumping into their seats once the boss arrives for work in my previous workplace, but I'm not sure if that applies to all companies.
However, if you want a better chance at promotion or a pay rise, here are a few things you could do.
Finish your given work on time, or faster.
Finishing your work on time helps to make it clear that you are interested in working for your company and that you are able to handle the workload easily.
Faster is sometimes better (although not always), but in some companies they might give you fresh work to do without recognizing your ability to work harder than others.
However, that doesn't mean your work should be full of errors. Rely on the saying - "Do it once, do it good!".
Have a break
Taking breaks helps the mind break away from the monotony that is the constant usage of computers and documents. Make it like a reward for working hard for that past hour or two, breathe some fresh air, drink a cup of tea or do whatever you like (just don't breach company rules).
Giving suggestions to improve workflow
If your company allows this, though (and also if you have stayed at the company long enough). Many companies are sufficient enough to handle themselves and may list you as a vigilante that is out to get the company if you're a new hire trying to change things around the company. You might end up getting burnt on a stake.
Make sure you're visible in the workplace
Hey, nobody is going to notice what you're doing for the company if you're going to hide in that pigeon hole everyday without talking to anyone, right?
Get up and talk to people, communicate, try not to make too many enemies and you might be well on your way to be noticed by the supervisor. Remember, you might want to suck up to only the supervisor, but the angry mob forming below you is going to drag you back down. Be nice.
edited Jun 28 '13 at 19:56
Peter Mortensen
45547
answered Jun 14 '12 at 13:18
Kyle Yeo
1296
edited Jun 28 '13 at 19:56
Peter Mortensen
45547
edited Jun 28 '13 at 19:56
Peter Mortensen
45547
edited Jun 28 '13 at 19:56
Peter Mortensen
45547
45547
answered Jun 14 '12 at 13:18
Kyle Yeo
1296
answered Jun 14 '12 at 13:18
Kyle Yeo
1296
answered Jun 14 '12 at 13:18
Kyle Yeo
1296
1296
add a comment |Â
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
You shouldn't change your work habits if they don't impact your work negatively. As long as you feel comfortable with them and get your assignments done on time, they shouldn't be an issue. If you forced yourself into taking fewer breaks, it could lead to stress, and it would make you focus on how uncomfortable you feel, rather than taking your mind off those issues so you can concentrate on the task at hand. If with time you find out that your break habits are changing, those should come organically, rather than being forced upon you by someone else or yourself.
All in all, have breaks as you are comfortable, as long as you are getting your work done on time and not "slacking off" for an extended period of time at once (which can be viewed negatively).
edited Jun 28 '13 at 19:56
yoozer8
4,10442955
answered Jun 14 '12 at 13:19
ThePiachu
95511023
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
You shouldn't change your work habits if they don't impact your work negatively. As long as you feel comfortable with them and get your assignments done on time, they shouldn't be an issue. If you forced yourself into taking fewer breaks, it could lead to stress, and it would make you focus on how uncomfortable you feel, rather than taking your mind off those issues so you can concentrate on the task at hand. If with time you find out that your break habits are changing, those should come organically, rather than being forced upon you by someone else or yourself.
All in all, have breaks as you are comfortable, as long as you are getting your work done on time and not "slacking off" for an extended period of time at once (which can be viewed negatively).
edited Jun 28 '13 at 19:56
yoozer8
4,10442955
answered Jun 14 '12 at 13:19
ThePiachu
95511023
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
up vote
0
down vote
You shouldn't change your work habits if they don't impact your work negatively. As long as you feel comfortable with them and get your assignments done on time, they shouldn't be an issue. If you forced yourself into taking fewer breaks, it could lead to stress, and it would make you focus on how uncomfortable you feel, rather than taking your mind off those issues so you can concentrate on the task at hand. If with time you find out that your break habits are changing, those should come organically, rather than being forced upon you by someone else or yourself.
All in all, have breaks as you are comfortable, as long as you are getting your work done on time and not "slacking off" for an extended period of time at once (which can be viewed negatively).
edited Jun 28 '13 at 19:56
yoozer8
4,10442955
answered Jun 14 '12 at 13:19
ThePiachu
95511023
You shouldn't change your work habits if they don't impact your work negatively. As long as you feel comfortable with them and get your assignments done on time, they shouldn't be an issue. If you forced yourself into taking fewer breaks, it could lead to stress, and it would make you focus on how uncomfortable you feel, rather than taking your mind off those issues so you can concentrate on the task at hand. If with time you find out that your break habits are changing, those should come organically, rather than being forced upon you by someone else or yourself.
All in all, have breaks as you are comfortable, as long as you are getting your work done on time and not "slacking off" for an extended period of time at once (which can be viewed negatively).
edited Jun 28 '13 at 19:56
yoozer8
4,10442955
answered Jun 14 '12 at 13:19
ThePiachu
95511023
edited Jun 28 '13 at 19:56
yoozer8
4,10442955
edited Jun 28 '13 at 19:56
yoozer8
4,10442955
edited Jun 28 '13 at 19:56
yoozer8
4,10442955
4,10442955
answered Jun 14 '12 at 13:19
ThePiachu
95511023
answered Jun 14 '12 at 13:19
ThePiachu
95511023
answered Jun 14 '12 at 13:19
ThePiachu
95511023
95511023
add a comment |Â
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
I work at home, and I sit a lot. I am having pain in my feet that some people describe as gout and others indicate are due to atrophy in leg muscles. Sitting for long periods is widely viewed as unhealthy. CDC Study
answered Jun 28 '13 at 22:21
Meredith Poor
8,8661730
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
I work at home, and I sit a lot. I am having pain in my feet that some people describe as gout and others indicate are due to atrophy in leg muscles. Sitting for long periods is widely viewed as unhealthy. CDC Study
answered Jun 28 '13 at 22:21
Meredith Poor
8,8661730
add a comment |Â
up vote
0
down vote
up vote
0
down vote
I work at home, and I sit a lot. I am having pain in my feet that some people describe as gout and others indicate are due to atrophy in leg muscles. Sitting for long periods is widely viewed as unhealthy. CDC Study
answered Jun 28 '13 at 22:21
Meredith Poor
8,8661730
I work at home, and I sit a lot. I am having pain in my feet that some people describe as gout and others indicate are due to atrophy in leg muscles. Sitting for long periods is widely viewed as unhealthy. CDC Study
answered Jun 28 '13 at 22:21
Meredith Poor
8,8661730
answered Jun 28 '13 at 22:21
Meredith Poor
8,8661730
answered Jun 28 '13 at 22:21
Meredith Poor
8,8661730
answered Jun 28 '13 at 22:21
Meredith Poor
8,8661730
8,8661730
add a comment |Â
add a comment |Â
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