5 Ways to Instantly Appear More Productive

Let's face it. We're not always as productive as we should be when we're at work. That doesn't mean we can appear to be more productive. Here are 5 easy ways I thought of to create the ever important illusion that you are indeed being more productive.

(5) Carry a folder - Whenever you leave your desk, pick up a random folder and carry it with you. You're bathroom break instantly looks more productive, as does going to get your mail.

(4) Stick a pencil in your ear - This one takes almost no effort. Simply put a pencil behind your ear. If this doesn't make you don't look like you're on a deadline and you mean business, I don't know what will. (Note: Mechanical pencils will not suffice. It must be a yellow pencil.)


















(3) Befriend Post-It notes - Add a couple of post it notes to your computer monitor. Write things like "Conference call, 3:30" or "Download Regression Report ASAP" on them, and voila! You're busy, productive, and important.















(2) Keep a messy desk - If a messy desk equals a cluttered mind, what does a clean desk indicate? An empty mind! Go ahead and stack some papers on your desk, and open a couple of folders and spread them around on your desk. It only takes a few seconds each morning, and you'll be well on your way to the coveted "Employee of the Month" award.

(1) Alter your dress slightly - This is the only gender-specific tip. If you're a guy, roll up your sleeves a bit, or slightly loosen your tie. This will show that you're really getting into your work, and you can't have blood restriction to your head be the cause of being unproductive. Similarly, you can't let your sleeves get in the way of your work. For women, well, I'm not sure what you could do. The sleeves trick still applies, but you can't exactly loosen your tie. Sorry.

Hope these help. Do you have any others?