Is It Normal to Do Basically Nothing at Your Office Job

When you ask office workers about their daily lives, you would be surprised to know that their work isn’t as busy as you may think. Sometimes, they would have a day where they didn’t do anything for most of the day. Instead of being idle, they could have used this time to [insert examples of tasks]. Sometimes, they are just there in the office and do anything they want as long as they stay there.

It’s a response that might surprise you, but the truth is, it’s a common occurrence in many offices. The question is, should it be the norm?

Here’s why it isn’t a good normal for your team and why you should consider reporting it to your employer:

It Fosters Resentment In The Team

While it is okay to have lull periods, if the team is overworked and their other colleagues are not working, this can create resentment. The team would think there is favouritism when this occurs and question the leadership of their team manager for letting it happen.

Employers Don’t Know It Happens

In most cases, the company does not know that most people are not working that much during their office hours. This not only affects the team’s productivity but also the company’s bottom line. As a result, they cannot stop this trend of idle employees. The disconnect also causes them to be unable to determine what their employees are assigned to do and understand the targets they should be getting.

There are many reasons managers or employers cannot monitor their employees and cause them to stay idle for too long. Some may be busy with meetings to keep up with the targets or share the sentiment that there is no point in actively monitoring the team.

Career Growth Is Stunted

If you ask those who regularly experience this type of workday, you will note that most of them say that they are not really happy about the situation. While they may have enjoyed the situation at first, some argue that they are now losing interest in the position and the tasks given to them.

This situation has also led employees to realize that it’s hindering their career growth. The longer they’re not working, the more they’re forgetting their skills.

Quitting Would Have Been Ideal

Some workers say that having a useless position and doing nothing at work makes them feel like quitting is better. Since they are not doing anything, they feel like they aren’t getting the pressure they need to reach out to others and succeed. Some even say that quitting or getting laid off would not be bad because it would be better than their current situation.

Guilt is Real

The fact that you cannot do anything or have nothing to do in your office can also make you feel guilty. You will become worried that you are taking advantage of your employer’s kindness without giving you all to help them in return.

Changing The Situation Will Be Difficult

For companies that can identify this trend, changing it can be a daunting task. If it persists, the company will struggle to make changes due to the time and effort required. Some may be hesitant to alter the decision-making model or processes, believing they don’t need to if the current system is still functional.

It can be tempting to accept a position that won’t require you to exert too much effort most of the time if it still provides you with the financial benefits you need. But, if you are not appreciated or utilised by the company, it may make it hard for you to pursue your career goals or get more lucrative opportunities. With this in mind, consider your current situation and, if possible, work with your employer to see how this situation can be avoided. You could suggest [insert potential solutions] to improve productivity and job satisfaction. Remember, time is money, and if you plan to succeed in your career, you must fight for what is best for you and your team.

Seeking your passion? Check out these here:
Striking a Balance between Your Passion and Your Income
How to Rediscover the Passion in Your Career?
12 Things You Can Do Today To Find Your Passion

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