Job Advice

What to do When You Don't Have Enough to do at Work

Do you often find yourself with not enough to do at work? For some, this may be great, but for those who like to be busy, it’s not enjoyable. In fact, if you’re the kind of person who is trying to build a career, it can be downright frustrating. Here’s what to do if you have too much time on your hands at work.

1. Decide if it’s Chronic or Temporary

Is the lack of work something that came on suddenly, or has it always been this way? If it’s sudden it might be temporary; in which case, the work drought could end soon. Just hang tight. But if it feels like it’s always been this way, you need to do something about it.

2. Talk to Your Boss

Approach your boss and tell them that you often find yourself with nothing to do. Your boss will likely come up with some temporary jobs to fill your time. But that doesn’t solve the problem long-term.

3. Figure Out if it’s You

Do you finish all your tasks or assignments really fast? It could be you’re just over-qualified for your job. You could be doing something more challenging where you get paid more. Consider looking for a job that wouldn’t come as easily to you.

4. See if it’s the Job

It’s possible the job you’re doing could be rolled into another person’s responsibilities and that your job just doesn’t have enough duties. If this is the case, sooner or later the higher-ups are going to realize it and maybe let you go. Consider taking on more responsibilities so your job entails more daily tasks and projects.

It’s really not fun to be bored at work. Consider all these points so you can feel busier and more fulfilled at work.