How to Show Your Boss You're Working Hard -- Even when You're Not

These days, it isn't about results, but about the effort you put into your work. If you can show your boss that you're working hard -- even when you're not -- you might find yourself up for a promotion. This is not to say that you should be intentionally unproductive, but many of those slackers you knew back in high school are holding top-level management positions because they can "fake it". Working hard isn't enough in this corporate culture; you have to show your boss you're working hard.

CC All Outgoing E-Mails

Sending boatloads of e-mails is a sure sign of productivity, so if you want to show your boss you're working hard, CC all of those outgoing e-mails to him. In some cases, you might be asked to stop because your boss' inbox is already too full, but most times, this will work like a charm. Your boss will see that you're working hard, connecting with colleagues and following up with customers.

Carry a Notebook

When you're making your hourly trek to the water cooler to discuss the weekend's parties and trysts, carry a notebook with you and write in it sporadically as though you're taking notes. Even if you're actually making a list of the movies you want to see when you get home, your boss will think that you're working hard on one project or another. This also works if you have one of those Franklin Day Planners -- carry your appointment book everywhere and be jotting things down if you happen to see your boss in the hall.

Be the First to Report

When you find out about a problem at work or if you hear from a customer who wants to open a large account, make sure you're the first to report the new development to your boss. It's easy to show your boss you're working hard if you are always on top of the office gossip, and your boss will start to look at you as though you're his right-hand man.

Leave it on the Computer