5 Ways To Look Busy At Work (Without Actually Working)

Have you ever found yourself at work, staring at your screen, wondering how to make it through the day without drowning in mind-numbing tasks?

Maybe that never-ending spreadsheet feels like a personal attack, or drafting yet another email reminding people to follow processes seems utterly pointless. But what if you could appear to be the hardest worker in the room—without actually doing much at all?

If you’re looking to master the art of workplace deception (without getting caught), here are five foolproof ways to look busy without breaking a sweat.

1. ☑️ The Classic ‘Meeting Mode’ – Schedule Fake Meetings and Master the Art of Looking Engaged

A full calendar makes you untouchable. Block out hours for "strategy sessions," "client calls," or even the vague yet authoritative "internal review." For extra believability, join a Google Meet call with just yourself—so your status stays ‘In a Meeting.’ Every now and then, frown at the screen or nod thoughtfully to sell it.

2. ☑️ Keep Your Headset On – The Ultimate ‘Do Not Disturb’ Signal

A headset is the universal sign of “I’m on a call,” and no one questions it. You don’t even need to be talking—just throw in an occasional hmm or good point if someone walks by. You get extra points if you stare at your screen with intense focus while typing nonsense.

3. ☑️ Screenshot a Virtual Team Meeting and Display It as Your Active Window

Open a screenshot of a previous team Zoom or Teams meeting and position it on your screen like it’s happening live. That way, if someone walks by, it looks like you’re engaged in a deep virtual discussion. Just remember to sigh or nod at the screen for effect occasionally.

4. ☑️ Carry Your Open Laptop When Walking Around – Appear Constantly On the Move

Need a break? Just walk around the office with your laptop open, looking at the screen with a furrowed brow. People will assume you’re in the middle of something important rather than heading to grab your fifth cup of coffee. If you really want to sell it, sigh and shake your head slightly, as if dealing with an urgent issue.

5. ☑️ Master the ‘Urgent Typing’ Technique – Look Overwhelmed with Emails

Keep a random document or email draft open, and type furiously whenever someone passes by. Doesn’t matter what you’re writing—gibberish, your grocery list, or even the lyrics to a song. The key is speed and intensity. Occasionally, lean back, rub your temples, and sigh dramatically to create the illusion of deadline stress.

With these five foolproof strategies, you’ll look like the busiest person in the office—while barely lifting a finger. Just remember, the key to success is commitment to the illusion. Happy (fake) working!