Here are eight ways you can waste time at work. This list is entirely for research purposes. Your results (and continued employment) may vary
- Frequent personal phone use: Employees who excessively use their personal phones for non-work-related activities are easily noticed and may get caught slacking off. Try to be more secretive.
- Unproductive internet browsing: Regularly visiting non-work-related websites, social media platforms, or engaging in online shopping during work hours can lead to getting caught slacking off. Use a private browser, or better yet, bring in your own laptop to avoid nosey IT people.
- Extended breaks: Taking longer breaks than allowed or frequently extending lunch breaks can raise suspicion and lead to being caught slacking. Take your breaks somewhere else in the building and always “forget” to clock out for lunch.
- Leaving the workplace without permission: Sneaking out of the office for personal reasons during work hours can easily be observed by colleagues or supervisors. Catch a ride on public transport or call a cab instead. If your car is in the parking lot, you must be at work? Right?
- Lack of output or results: If an employee consistently fails to meet deadlines or produce results, it may raise concerns about their productivity and work ethic. When possible, blame others. Or crash your computer.
- Procrastination: Constantly putting off tasks and delaying work may attract attention and result in being caught slacking off. The key is to just schedule things way off into the future the first time. Plan your procrastination.
- Visible non-work activities: Engaging in hobbies, personal projects, or leisure activities openly at work can be a clear indicator of slacking off. Try not to practice putting in front of the office.
- Socializing excessively: Spending an excessive amount of time chatting with coworkers about non-work-related topics can be seen as unproductive and may lead to getting caught. Talk in code so it appears like a work conversation, instead of what your favorite sports team did over the weekend.
Remember, maintaining a professional attitude and focusing on work-related tasks is crucial for a successful career and a positive work environment. So is not getting caught. It’s always best to be diligent and contribute effectively to the organization you work for. Unless you can’t.
