I’m working from home at a new job and honestly I don’t have much to do. I’ve offered to help my coworkers, but I’ve been told not to worry, sometimes there are slow periods. I have to submit daily logs and don’t want to appear unproductive. I’m also going crazy with “busy work”. Should I ask my boss for more work? Or would you feel bad about not being busy?
I have never experienced an employee feeling bad when asked to do more work. You don’t have to figure out how to stay busy at work – you’re expected to be like the rest of us and struggle to find time to take time off. I appreciate that you want to do more and that you’re looking for ways to add value, as is your employer, I’m sure. However, instead of just doing this yourself, tell your boss that your utilization is declining and that you are trying to do more wherever possible.
Share as part of your job description that you would like to take on more responsibility on a more permanent, official basis. This way you’re demonstrating an admirable work ethic and getting credit (and ultimately rewards) for getting more done. One caveat: If you don’t have enough to do and they don’t have more for you, your boss may realize that maybe they don’t need you in the role, so don’t be afraid to inadvertently fire yourself. Do it.
Gregory Giangrande has over 25 years of experience as a Chief Human Resources Executive. Listen to Greg every Wednesday at 9:35am iHeartRadio 710 worksEmail: GoToGreg@NYPost.com. to follow: GoToGreg.com and on LinkedIn.
