We are in the middle of March Madness. American business loses millions of dollars in
lost productivity as employees watch the basketball tournament instead of working. Many
people watch the games on their computers at work. The sites that make the basketball
games available often have a “boss button” on screen. The theory is that if the boss walks
in, you can just click that link and a business-like screen, usually a spreadsheet, pops up
and hides the basketball game. Theres just one problem – the “boss button” doesnt work.
Sure, clicking the “boss button” pops up the phony spreadsheet screen. The problem is that
its not fooling the boss. There are lots of clues he or she picks up on so they can tell you
arent doing the work you want them to think you are:
* You arent touchng the mouse, until the second you see them coming.
* You never get that excited about a spreadsheet
* The only thing you talked about in the lunchroom was your “bracket”
* The spreadsheet includes names of clients who you dont do business with and products
you dont sell
* You havent had a spreadsheet open on your computer in the three years youve worked
there
and the biggest clue –
* Your output has fallen like a rock since the tournament started.
Dont waste time trying to fool your boss. It wont work because the boss has been where
you are and knows the tricks too. Focus your energy instead on keeping your productivity
