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Tip #56: “Be Visible”
When working from home, it’s important to be visible, even if you are doing no actual work all day. Disappearing for long lunches, or not being reachable while working from home, are mistakes. The assumption is always that you are goofing around. Appearance is more important than whether you were working or not. This is why you tell others about an offsite meeting you will be attending rather than going and not saying anything.
Tip #57: “Be Transparent About Hours”
Don’t make a secret of your typical work schedule. When something upsets it, be open about that, too. If you were late by ten minutes, admit it and make a point of being seen at work ten minutes past your usual departure time. You want to make a show of not skimping. Once again, appearance matters. Even if you’re doing non-work related stuff on the computer for that extra ten minutes at the end of the day, it’s better than not visibly making up the missed time (as long as no-one can see what you’re actually doing).
Tip #58: “Assume Your Behavior is Being Noticed”
Sometimes you feel like you’re getting away with something, like repeatedly being late and not making up the time, but any repeated behavior is ripe for others to remember. You will acquire a reputation and it’s on you to ensure it’s a good one. Even innocent behavior like doing a couple walking laps around the building is sometimes best done discreetly (i.e., don’t be visible!). For example, randomly change where this walking is done so it’s less likely the same people are always seeing you do it.
Tip #59: “Small Breaks Count as Work Time”
No one can work constantly without a break. Whether a few minutes or a few hours, breaks can be counted as work time if no one realizes you are not working at that moment. You are expected to be at work a set number of hours per day per week, not actually work that many hours, just close. As long as you get your work done, on time, and it’s good, there is leeway for unnoticed breaks, which is the key. Subterfuge is your friend.
Tip #60: “Work First, Goof Around Later”
Speaking of not working, it’s always best to get assignments done first and then goof off, not the other way around. That way, you don’t have to worry and if someone gives you grief or asks to see the work, you have it at once, tossing in a “just finished!” remark (even if that was hours ago). Sometimes it pays to act like you are doing a mini-celebration, as if this is what your “goofing around” behavior was actually about.