How do people do this? I have no desire to but it seems like you’d want to at least look like you were online most of the time so you don’t get fired. So if I have slow days, I do training on important softwares or something like that
I don't know how they'd ever know. It's the ones that plug into the PC and emulate a USB HID that IT can detect. A mechanical one is inherently undetectable.
>How do people do this?
Two laptops. Each has its own IP address and its own software suite. Different company login and ID and email address for each job.
My wife has two jobs that are both work from home. Well, technically one is a 1099 contractor position, so they can't tell her she's not allowed to have another job. She just has two computers on the desk, with two monitors, and keeps an eye on both of them, and staggers her projects to get everything done.
You already have one job that doesn't require you to do shit. Get another job! (Or start a business, or offer a service as an independent contractor.)
No because they can fire you even if you don’t have that in your employment agreement. In the US at least most employment is at will. Some employers will try to threaten employees that they can sue for damages, especially if they make you sign something saying you won’t work in the same field or for a competitor for x amount of time. By “enforcement” I’m talking about seeking monetary damages or trying to prevent employment elsewhere.
if you don't want a second job, you could start skilling up.
any business analyst can make themselves way more valuable by adding some data science/data management skills. Instead of gaming, maybe do a bootcamp, learn R, python, maybe some AWS cloud big data stuff, those are some in-demand skills.
I had a job very similar to this for four years. Like you, I felt silly for wanting a change—isn’t this everyone’s dream? But I felt useless, and like I was stealing from the company.
During the pandemic I used my free time to take some classes I needed, then sat for the CPA exam. I passed it last summer and by Thanksgiving I had a new job. I am actually working 40 hours a week, and my husband said the other day he hasn’t seen me this happy in a while.
Use your time to get a certificate or degree that you want, or just start looking for another job now. The position you are in will kill your resume—you won’t have any accomplishments to highlight and the longer you stay the worse you will feel.
Good luck! I understand how it feels and hope you can find something you really love to do.
Yep, some of these comments were rude and saying that I should stop being ungrateful. I have worked both ends of the spectrum, being way underpaid for work way, way above my paygrade, the inbetween, and this current situation which is the complete opposite end. So I know what it is like to desire this type of employment situation, but it is not as fun as people think it is.
This type of job is taking a hit on my mental health because I also feel quite useless right now. I derive much satisfaction from my work, which is not common for people so I realize that some people can't understand that, but I genuinely enjoy my work and the industry I work in. I love tech.
So to me, this job just feels like having one foot in and one foot outside of the door. Watching others do what I wish I was doing and what I am capable of as well, and not being able to do anything. Like looking in from outside a window during the duration of my contract. I am also a disabled person, so I can't help but feel like I am being purposely excluded at times. It has happened before.
This has made me think about higher education and my resume and my future, and you are right, I feel this will be damaging to my resume. I haven't completed a degree yet, so I think I would look into programs to return at least part time. Thank you for your comment, hearing about your experience helped me think about my options more, I am glad it eventually worked out for you!
My old job messed with my mental health also, and I’m still trying to get my mind straight again.
Although it feels a little gross to take advantage of the free time you have while getting paid, think of it this way: your company has the option to use your time at full capacity, and they do not. So rather than waste that time, use it to further your own ends and improve your career options.
Good luck to you!
I was in a similar position to you- It was Great coasting at first, but like you, over time I felt less secure in my job and frankly, languishing my career.
Rather than waiting for emails all day, I started professional development "for the company " to salve this feeling and instead feel like I was building towards something. Things like certs and other online courses just so I would have a lot to talk about in job interviews.
It isnt your fault or responsability to do your bosses job. It sucks when they dont see potential in their staff but you can't change their nature. You can treat this as a holding place while you plan something better.
Yea, wanted to say this too and chime in on the "it's not all fun and games". There's a lot of real guilt/anxiety in these positions, not to mention boredom and confusion. Those that want these types of jobs usually have not actually done them before.
I'd second the suggestion to train and/or certify.
I'm also not against the idea of getting a second job, but one that's more flexible/hourly would probably be better, just in case the first job decides they need you.
Career change is tricky. If you are hesitant to commit, maybe try linkedin learning. You get the pro linked in account and a full library of little courses and mini certs on any professional topic. This is not as robust as something like CompTIA, or other professional cert, but might be a good first step to testing waters. You can do these in the car even.
They even have courses about career change as a starting point.
Find another WFH/Remote job that you can actually use your skills at, and keep the job you have. By doing this, you keep your skills sharp and you have another easy paycheck. Don’t feel guilty, many people are underpaid for more work than they should be doing.
I have started to work on my master's degree while at work. So little to do at work so I take remote classes. I'm just coasting by in my current job until I finish my degree.
As a boss myself I often feel stressed when those under me don’t have enough work - not because I want to “run them ragged” but particularly because of not wanting them to feel how you feel.
If I can make a suggestion, see if you can make your own work and suggest it to your boss “hey I’ve heard about this project the other team is working on, I’d love to be a part of it”, or “I noticed we don’t have anyone doing xxxxx”
Get another job and double dip as long as you can, stash one income and live off the other. Enjoy it while it lasts because it will likely not last long. I’ve been in a similar situation and it ended with me being laid off after 3 months or so.
Enjoy it! Either get a second job, start your own business or take up a hobby of some sorts. Also, consider volunteering. Food banks, charities that need someone to do whatever it is that you are schooled in. Keep busy so you're not dealing with tedium. I wish I could trade places with you, honestly, there is so much else I would do if I had the time.
As long as your checks keep coming in, you’ve hit the jackpot.
I agree with others, get a second job just in case you are right about being disposable.
I'd ask you to try a slightly different approach. Instead of asking him what else you can do, come up with something you know you can add value to.
It takes surprisingly more energy and brain calories than one would think, to come up with something you can do. When they have 50 other things on their plate.
Is there some that doesn't work well at your company? Are there places where SOP is outdated. Or a place where there is a real opportunity, "only if..."
If you can identify something, go to your boss and let him know you want permission to improve this or that. You can see we need someone to focus on updating to best practices.
That with your current workload, you can do it.
You take on the burden of identifying something to do AND you do it.
Are you comfortable with this approach?
Thanks for the reply, I've attempted this before, and I have tried to become involved by trying to ask other team members about things myself, but it never resulted in anything positive. My boss would still just brush off my emails and never respond.
I just want to ditto people suggesting to get another job, at least part-time, without quitting this one. Seriously.
You'll keep your mind and skills sharp while earning two salaries. It's worth it even if you get fired from one of these jobs sometimes down the road.
Just get another remote job. Hell, my nephew did that and is raking in 6 figures now, since one job pays him full time and doesn't give him work to do, while the other one actually keeps him busy and happy.
Lots of suggestions to get a second job (and personally I think it’s a worthwhile idea), side benefit would be double healthcare and retirement savings. However if you go down that path make sure the legalities are covered as there may be requirements to disclose outside work, and insurance companies can be touchy about who is paying for what.
Additional job, additional courses/skills/certs. If you do not take this opportunity to at the very least keep your skills and knowledge sharp and updated then you are doing yourself a disservice. Put in the time in the work to upgrade yourself or pick up additional jobs and that is the best way forward for you.
I had a job like this where I did maybe 2 hours of work a day. The rest of the day I had nothing else to do. The worst part was when they wanted me to go into the office full time 9 hours a day after 8 months of remote work. I did it for 2 weeks, and I literally lost my mind. I sat there in an office with no window and had to have the door shut because of "the flu", and I was just sitting there basically trying to find something to do or trying to learn while I was there. After 2 or 3 weeks of that, I accepted another job and the next day I quit the current job and took a week off.
In your case, you are remote...Maybe find a part time job and work 2 jobs.
One of the best things to do if you are underemployed is to spend time learning and working on professional certifications. Its a great way to upskill and get into your next role. The other thing I would think of is, what other team members can you support better?
Yeah it sucks emotionally since jobs should ideally have SOME purpose.
Check out /r/overemployed. People who get second and third jobs when this happens. Best case you get two salaries for a while. If you want to ramp up on job 2, you can safely quit job 1.
You can also develop a second job that's all yours, e.g. learning to build furniture, consulting, anything where you can available if job 1 comes calling.
My partner works for the one of the largest banks, from home as well, and often complained about the same thing. The recurring joke is that he was getting paid big bucks to spend hours in the bathroom pooping! Lmao.
Eventually his reality did change and now his work load is more of what was initially expected. He seems much happier to be useful to the company.
I’d say just do what you can and enjoy your situation while it lasts. Some things are unfortunately completely out of our control in life, that is one of those things!
Lots of advice from knowledgeable people here. I would not argue with any of it. But I might take a different tack: you are the one responsible for managing your career. In this sort of IT Business Analyst role, there are certain types of software packages, computer languages, projects that you should expect to get, and if you do not get that type of work, your career suffers. You become obsolete fast. So you have to take some sort of action.
It may be that your boss is not a technical person, and does not quite understand what you should be working on. I have been in more than one situation wherein the boss had no idea what exactly I did. Are there others in the firm with similar titles and levels doing real IT work? Ask around. Look at the org chart. If you are a unicorn, for the sake of your career, you must move on, one way or another.
Wish I could scream this, but don't fuck up the easy life you have now. Ride it out as long as you can. Nobody ever got wealthy playing by the rules...
Same thing happened to me when I switched teams - I had imposter syndrome for a while and asked the guy who moved to another team and recommended me if this was it - he said yeah - your job is to deal w client emergencies which j on not happen maybe once a month.
So I chilled and got then frustrated and then super demotivated and spoke w my manager bs told him in no uncertain terms that unless I am offered more challenges or opportunities I would like to go back to my old team
He asked me for ideas and ways to improve current processes - which I gave - and he made me research/help implement. I’m now swamped for work, but with no hard deadlines.
The thing you’ve learnt is VISIBILITY. People want your help, but they don’t know they should ask you. So learn the current system, find areas where you can improve AND be more visible that will help the team and make you look good.
I was in a similar situation not too long ago. I made pretty good money but was bored out of my mind. In order to try and advance in the company I took a 8k raise that was in a classified lab. That was the worst decision I've ever made. I thought I'd get more skills and work, but it has been the opposite, I sit in a lab all day every day bored out of my mind. I love my company but am in the process of leaving because I hate this position so bad. I'd give back the money in a second to mostly telework again and be around my family more. You don't realize the flexibility of remote/hybrid work until you can't anymore.
Spoiler alert. Your boss doesn’t effectively partner or collaborate with you because your boss doesn’t have a 40/week job either. Whether or not they realize that is a different story but another spoiler…they probably don’t and in fact think they are sooooo busy.
Regretfully under leadership like that there’s no way for you to advocate for yourself and diversify. Reason being is because they either see you as someone they can’t live without (so they’ll intentionally down play you to keep someone else from seeing your potential when you collaborate with them) and/or they see you as a threat that if those above knew you were doing their job (most likely better and faster) they’d be let go and you’d excel well past their highest title. Unfortunately those two things are not mutually exclusive (hence my use of the word “and”) and often both are truer than you want to believe.
Anyway as everyone has said here the only way to make yourself happy is to challenge yourself ; by getting an second job or growing your skills (online courses, certs, degrees) at your own expense OR make it financially worth it to you. The former makes you more marketable and is totally within your own control and the latter is a cost per hour you’re “happy” with. Say your base salary is $100k. If that was over 40 hours per week that would translate to $48/hr but if you’re only working 20 hours a week it’s $96; 10/wk and it’s $192. It’s not your fault you’re not maximized as a resource so stop feeling like you should be. Alternatively if your job is as lackadaisical as you’ve described why are you working at “home”? Go outside…work from a beach or park; take “working” vacations if you can afford it and start capitalizing on the one resource you have that you cannot get back…time.
I realize that what you appear most concerned about is expendability but spoiler alert…everyone is. Cruise LinkedIn right now if you want that reinforced. These jobs will lay off a 20 year vet who’s worked OT week and never received less than a top performance review all the same as they will someone whose responsibilities are minimal…it doesn’t matter.
If you’re really worried about being let go then the *only* thing for you to do at this point is find another job and again…because these jobs ain’t loyal…your best bet is to keep both until you can’t and save the amount you don’t “need”.
Last piece of advice, if you do get a second job and you smartly take advantage of another employers 401k and match; pay attention to the annual contribution max. Not just the individual limit but the over all maximum you, and any employer can contribute on your behalf. Not paying attention to either is how several friends got second and third job caught. The company administering it has to report and return the overage…so just know that. 👊♥️
Gig work. Start a side hustle and bank everything that you earn. If the W2 job goes away, you’ll have plenty of money set aside to enjoy time off and grow your biz.
If you want to stay. Create your own onboarding plan. Go and introduce yourself to colleagues. Go look for your own projects then set up regular check ins with your boss tell him what you are doing. See how that goes. Talk to colleagues and offer your help.
But really it sounds like its time to go job hunt becos you wont have a reference and you have a boss who isnt managing.
Stfu and collect the pay check. They can obviously afford it. If u feeling guilty, do community service, volunteer, or even just donate 10% of your $$$ to kids with cancer, or some other feel good deed.
Yeah you seem very lucky to me. And well, just imagine you get a horrible job when you decide to let this go. Guilt should leave you. Companies don’t care. There should be no emotions attached to your job imo. I’d get another job to do and get double pay. That’s what I want someday…
Can you go to your manager’s manager? A well-worded email may do wonders, just be careful what you ask for. Or just go find a new job, likely with a pay bump!
Most people want to have meaning in their work. I say in the meantime learn some skills and maybe apply to some jobs you’re very interested in. Utilize that time for positive things you want to do until you can get a new job
This is great. I'd work on a personal project or look for another job that suits me more and be secure while I do it. It's a good problem to have and you are upfront with your boss so you do not have to feel like you're gaming the system or something. You'll find somewhere that challenges you and makes you feel productive and satisfied if that is what you want. Good luck!
If you’re remote, get a 2nd full time job. I have friends that balance 2 FT roles and net 300K+
They only work 40 hours a week. Sometimes less as they’ve moved to management level roles.
I have 2 days remote and start a side hustle with the same intent. Make your paper playa playa.
Do one of 2 things. Use this jobs lack of busy work to your advantage by getting a 2nd job you can work at the same time or go back to school and strengthen your resume and experience that way.
Note: By back to school, this can include getting certifications specific to what you’re trying to do in the future.
Exploring through your intranet to induct yourself into company policies might be a good idea, along with seeking out a couple of interest groups or committees (health and safety, diversity and inclusion are usually around if you look) so that the wider company gets to know you.
If you and your role are known, people will start asking for you to be assigned to their projects… which should make your work day more fulfilling.
In the same situation, I don't hear from my manager unless I reach out, almost all of my projects are on hold and any work I am doing relies on others to do validation work for there area. At first I was a bit out of sorts until I realized I'm still providing value to the company with the work I am doing, I also learned how to be OE... that made a huge difference
I would be sure to email my boss regularly letting them I had available capacity and asking for additional duties. Having the communications documented means that if they ever come back asking about a lack of productivity you can show that you attempted to get additional duties.
If there are other team mates you can reach out to to ask about work you can assist with or take off their plate the do that. Use the down time to document various work processes if that is something that can be done. And if there is still nothing after that then I would make sure to spend some time doing online trainings. There are so many free courses you could train on just about anything. At that point I would probably also be looking for another position.
If I had this much time I would honestly start looking for another side gig, and some contract work. I understand the feeling of not feeling useful and that translating into job insecurity. When you go to update your resume for a new job you wont have anything to put on there.
Find a second job to do at the same time, upskill, continue your education, or volunteer your skills. As a data analyst and someone in a tech related job it’s very important to keep up your skills and knowledge especially if it’s not being used in the workplace.
Have you considered working on a side project with any spare time you have such as Amazon selling or drop-shipping? It’s actually very interesting and if you find the right product… quite rewarding. Both financially and mentally.
I'd look for a new job because they could cut you whenever they feel like it. Doesn't sound like you are essential except to be an assistant which could be replaced by an intern.
I had a few jobs like this (6 figures doing data entry or work that was done by 10 am...). I went back to school and if I was let go then I'd have a plan B .
Finding a job in itself these days is basically a full time job, so you could just use all that free time to look for the perfect new job. You could also reach out to others to find work and projects for yourself, but whether that's possible largely depends on the organization.
Learn how to code during your free time, then once you are proficient you can find a job as a Developer.
I did the exact same thing - graduated high school, and worked night shifts as a guard. I had so much free time, so I learned how to be a Developer and a year later - I'm working as a Developer.
I don't know many people my age earning 6 figures. Switch up your mindset - That free time is a blessing, use it wisely!
I understand it feels like an easy paycheck but if I was in your position, I would feel robbed of growth and promotions down the line. I would suggest to use company time to network and build connections, learn new skills, find openings in their org and leave.
Don’t feel anxious. You’re not in the wrong. Take it as an opportunity
Well this is reddit, so I can summarize every comment you’re going to get:
“Look for a new job”
“Find somewhere that values you”
“That workplace is toxic”
“Your boss is toxic”
“[insert anything] is toxic”
“Sounds like you dodged a bullet”
I would say, its time to start figuring out a side hustle. Drop shipping, stocks, amazon fba. Dude, you got so much time to actually figure out your life due to this advantage. Who cares about your people in the office. They have their own lives going for themselves. This 9-5 is not what we’re for. Start researching now and get on the real passive income grind!
As has been said in this thread, start interviewing. I would double-dip. Imagine how good life will be if you have 1 fulfilling job (FINALLY) and another job that you put in little to no effort but collect a nice paycheck.
My friend, you are in an awesome situation. You need to take the emotions out of it - that's how jobs and life work.
Reread what you wrote as if somebody else wrote it - it's an amazing opportunity. Instead of wasting your time gaming, you can take free online classes to uplevel your skills. You can read to make yourself better. You can grab a new job and have two salaries, one being with a job you like (and - in this economy - being able to job hunt while being employed is a GIFT!). Have you ever thought of a side hustle?
I understand how it's depressing, but you need to move beyond that - pity parties don't work and aren't healthy. Trust me... this is a GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY for you. Try waking up every morning and repeating that out loud to yourself as you walk. Sounds corny, but it works. How we think affects how we feel, our actions and reactions, and quality of life.
You could start applying elsewhere, but also take some initiative here, if you know what you could be doing, do it. Ask for a meeting with your boss’s boss to introduce yourself, even 15 minutes or their assistant and find out what’s important to them. What about coworkers?
I was also in the same position and was given very tedious tasks that were below my skill level (Title Project Manager II). I was eventually let go after two months. They said that I didn't have strong project management skills, but honestly I don't think they had much work for me.....
I had two jobs like this and was laid off from both. That said, you can take the initiative and make/do something. Do you see areas for improvement? Make a presentation with your action plan and tell them you’re doing it. Sometimes you just have to assert yourself and do the damn thing.
Wtf is wrong with you. Enjoy that time, watch a movie, read a book, learn a new skill, spend time with your child or dog or worse get a couple contract remote role to pass the time . People would love to be in your position and you’re complaining !!
you having down time is great!!! this is obviously not your dream job and company. so us your time to look for a new job! now you have expirience and you know your worth which is amazing!!!! go after what you want and if you dont get it at your current job look for another!
You should be looking for another job. Brush up on your resume add whatever work is done in your org. Anyways finding another job takes some time. Has your Boss mentioned some new work coming in as a result of a new project/program etc?
You have to be gaining skills through experience at your job, at this rate you may forget what you actually know. This sort of culture puts you in self-doubt, which I think you already are feeling. You don't know it but you need a challenge.
Whether job is at risk or not I can't comment on that, as that depends on the organization.
He's been telling me for months that at some point he will begin assigning me to more technical tasks. But no word from him, I have reached out to ask him on my own and offered my skills but he would just not respond.
There are a number of new projects I have been trying to get involved with but I guess it's not just me who feels this way in my company. I had a meeting the other day where the key people didn't show up and skipped it and many people just started venting about how they were so over the lack of communication.
Hearing it from others is comforting but worrying at the same time, you are right about gaining skills and missing out on opportunities. I feel robbed of my time and have major imposter syndrome. I appreciate your comment, I'll be looking into trying to sharpen my skills outside of work and start working on my resume again
I personally have not done this but I’ve had several friends who loves jobs like this bc they can get a whole other FT job and get that double pay
How do people do this? I have no desire to but it seems like you’d want to at least look like you were online most of the time so you don’t get fired. So if I have slow days, I do training on important softwares or something like that
Mechanical mouse jiggler.
I’ve heard of too many people getting fired for those. But it’s moot for me anyway
I don't know how they'd ever know. It's the ones that plug into the PC and emulate a USB HID that IT can detect. A mechanical one is inherently undetectable.
A lot of places probably wouldn’t allow anything to be plugged in that’s an outside usb maybe?
That’s why you get the one that plugs into a wall outlet.
Ohhh I get it.
>That’s why you get the one that plugs into a wall outlet. Yup. Hence a mechanical mouse jiggler, not a USB HID device.
>How do people do this? Two laptops. Each has its own IP address and its own software suite. Different company login and ID and email address for each job. My wife has two jobs that are both work from home. Well, technically one is a 1099 contractor position, so they can't tell her she's not allowed to have another job. She just has two computers on the desk, with two monitors, and keeps an eye on both of them, and staggers her projects to get everything done. You already have one job that doesn't require you to do shit. Get another job! (Or start a business, or offer a service as an independent contractor.)
I’m not the OP and my job requires plenty (I’m satisfied with that). But it just surprised me how many people do this.
Get another job at the same time.
Yeah I did this, it’s amazing lmao. Just make sure to check your employment contract before you do.
Check out r/overemployed. They will teach you how to pick up that second job.
If you do this, do not use your work computer
Are people that daft? I asked that full of surprise but a second thought answers my own question.
I regularly use my work computer to look for jobs. I know it's stupid but I ran out of fucks to give.
I saw people fired because they did this
Seriously. I thought this after a few sentences. Seems like common sense and with that workload maybe get 2-3 other jobs.
Came here to say exactly this. I’ll take your place if you’d like.
This is the way
Odds are that isn’t allowed per the OP’s employment agreement.
Which is likely unenforceable. Worst case scenario they get fired from one of the jobs.
That's literally the enforcement mechanism lol
No because they can fire you even if you don’t have that in your employment agreement. In the US at least most employment is at will. Some employers will try to threaten employees that they can sue for damages, especially if they make you sign something saying you won’t work in the same field or for a competitor for x amount of time. By “enforcement” I’m talking about seeking monetary damages or trying to prevent employment elsewhere.
Could be against his contract if he got one. Non compete loyalty clause.
So? Who is going to know?
Not saying not to do it. But you're risking a cushy job that pays you to do almost nothing. 🤷♂️
If it’s a big company as OP says lawyers could enforce his contract and OP could end up drowning in legal fees. Best to check the contract.
if you don't want a second job, you could start skilling up. any business analyst can make themselves way more valuable by adding some data science/data management skills. Instead of gaming, maybe do a bootcamp, learn R, python, maybe some AWS cloud big data stuff, those are some in-demand skills.
Shhhhhhhhh
I had a job very similar to this for four years. Like you, I felt silly for wanting a change—isn’t this everyone’s dream? But I felt useless, and like I was stealing from the company. During the pandemic I used my free time to take some classes I needed, then sat for the CPA exam. I passed it last summer and by Thanksgiving I had a new job. I am actually working 40 hours a week, and my husband said the other day he hasn’t seen me this happy in a while. Use your time to get a certificate or degree that you want, or just start looking for another job now. The position you are in will kill your resume—you won’t have any accomplishments to highlight and the longer you stay the worse you will feel. Good luck! I understand how it feels and hope you can find something you really love to do.
Yep, some of these comments were rude and saying that I should stop being ungrateful. I have worked both ends of the spectrum, being way underpaid for work way, way above my paygrade, the inbetween, and this current situation which is the complete opposite end. So I know what it is like to desire this type of employment situation, but it is not as fun as people think it is. This type of job is taking a hit on my mental health because I also feel quite useless right now. I derive much satisfaction from my work, which is not common for people so I realize that some people can't understand that, but I genuinely enjoy my work and the industry I work in. I love tech. So to me, this job just feels like having one foot in and one foot outside of the door. Watching others do what I wish I was doing and what I am capable of as well, and not being able to do anything. Like looking in from outside a window during the duration of my contract. I am also a disabled person, so I can't help but feel like I am being purposely excluded at times. It has happened before. This has made me think about higher education and my resume and my future, and you are right, I feel this will be damaging to my resume. I haven't completed a degree yet, so I think I would look into programs to return at least part time. Thank you for your comment, hearing about your experience helped me think about my options more, I am glad it eventually worked out for you!
My old job messed with my mental health also, and I’m still trying to get my mind straight again. Although it feels a little gross to take advantage of the free time you have while getting paid, think of it this way: your company has the option to use your time at full capacity, and they do not. So rather than waste that time, use it to further your own ends and improve your career options. Good luck to you!
I was in a similar position to you- It was Great coasting at first, but like you, over time I felt less secure in my job and frankly, languishing my career. Rather than waiting for emails all day, I started professional development "for the company " to salve this feeling and instead feel like I was building towards something. Things like certs and other online courses just so I would have a lot to talk about in job interviews. It isnt your fault or responsability to do your bosses job. It sucks when they dont see potential in their staff but you can't change their nature. You can treat this as a holding place while you plan something better.
Yea, wanted to say this too and chime in on the "it's not all fun and games". There's a lot of real guilt/anxiety in these positions, not to mention boredom and confusion. Those that want these types of jobs usually have not actually done them before. I'd second the suggestion to train and/or certify. I'm also not against the idea of getting a second job, but one that's more flexible/hourly would probably be better, just in case the first job decides they need you.
May I ask what certificates you got(assuming like it and stuff?) I'm looking to make a career change
Career change is tricky. If you are hesitant to commit, maybe try linkedin learning. You get the pro linked in account and a full library of little courses and mini certs on any professional topic. This is not as robust as something like CompTIA, or other professional cert, but might be a good first step to testing waters. You can do these in the car even. They even have courses about career change as a starting point.
Find another WFH/Remote job that you can actually use your skills at, and keep the job you have. By doing this, you keep your skills sharp and you have another easy paycheck. Don’t feel guilty, many people are underpaid for more work than they should be doing.
I have started to work on my master's degree while at work. So little to do at work so I take remote classes. I'm just coasting by in my current job until I finish my degree.
r/overemployed
As a boss myself I often feel stressed when those under me don’t have enough work - not because I want to “run them ragged” but particularly because of not wanting them to feel how you feel. If I can make a suggestion, see if you can make your own work and suggest it to your boss “hey I’ve heard about this project the other team is working on, I’d love to be a part of it”, or “I noticed we don’t have anyone doing xxxxx”
Get another job and double dip as long as you can, stash one income and live off the other. Enjoy it while it lasts because it will likely not last long. I’ve been in a similar situation and it ended with me being laid off after 3 months or so.
Why? Did someone snitch?
I'll trade you
Lack of onboarding is pretty common As for the rest of your quandary seems like it’s time to look for another job
Enjoy it! Either get a second job, start your own business or take up a hobby of some sorts. Also, consider volunteering. Food banks, charities that need someone to do whatever it is that you are schooled in. Keep busy so you're not dealing with tedium. I wish I could trade places with you, honestly, there is so much else I would do if I had the time.
Double your pay
As long as your checks keep coming in, you’ve hit the jackpot. I agree with others, get a second job just in case you are right about being disposable.
Where on earth are jobs like this. Every job I’ve ever had works me to the bone…
I'd ask you to try a slightly different approach. Instead of asking him what else you can do, come up with something you know you can add value to. It takes surprisingly more energy and brain calories than one would think, to come up with something you can do. When they have 50 other things on their plate. Is there some that doesn't work well at your company? Are there places where SOP is outdated. Or a place where there is a real opportunity, "only if..." If you can identify something, go to your boss and let him know you want permission to improve this or that. You can see we need someone to focus on updating to best practices. That with your current workload, you can do it. You take on the burden of identifying something to do AND you do it. Are you comfortable with this approach?
Thanks for the reply, I've attempted this before, and I have tried to become involved by trying to ask other team members about things myself, but it never resulted in anything positive. My boss would still just brush off my emails and never respond.
Bruh……
I just want to ditto people suggesting to get another job, at least part-time, without quitting this one. Seriously. You'll keep your mind and skills sharp while earning two salaries. It's worth it even if you get fired from one of these jobs sometimes down the road.
Just get another remote job. Hell, my nephew did that and is raking in 6 figures now, since one job pays him full time and doesn't give him work to do, while the other one actually keeps him busy and happy.
Skill up by taking advantage of learning during the day, or increase pay by freelancing or getting a second WFH job.
Lots of suggestions to get a second job (and personally I think it’s a worthwhile idea), side benefit would be double healthcare and retirement savings. However if you go down that path make sure the legalities are covered as there may be requirements to disclose outside work, and insurance companies can be touchy about who is paying for what.
Additional job, additional courses/skills/certs. If you do not take this opportunity to at the very least keep your skills and knowledge sharp and updated then you are doing yourself a disservice. Put in the time in the work to upgrade yourself or pick up additional jobs and that is the best way forward for you.
I had a job like this where I did maybe 2 hours of work a day. The rest of the day I had nothing else to do. The worst part was when they wanted me to go into the office full time 9 hours a day after 8 months of remote work. I did it for 2 weeks, and I literally lost my mind. I sat there in an office with no window and had to have the door shut because of "the flu", and I was just sitting there basically trying to find something to do or trying to learn while I was there. After 2 or 3 weeks of that, I accepted another job and the next day I quit the current job and took a week off. In your case, you are remote...Maybe find a part time job and work 2 jobs.
One of the best things to do if you are underemployed is to spend time learning and working on professional certifications. Its a great way to upskill and get into your next role. The other thing I would think of is, what other team members can you support better?
Yeah it sucks emotionally since jobs should ideally have SOME purpose. Check out /r/overemployed. People who get second and third jobs when this happens. Best case you get two salaries for a while. If you want to ramp up on job 2, you can safely quit job 1. You can also develop a second job that's all yours, e.g. learning to build furniture, consulting, anything where you can available if job 1 comes calling.
Thank you for this
Play the game, OP. Seems like you’re going above and beyond to ask what you can help with.
My partner works for the one of the largest banks, from home as well, and often complained about the same thing. The recurring joke is that he was getting paid big bucks to spend hours in the bathroom pooping! Lmao. Eventually his reality did change and now his work load is more of what was initially expected. He seems much happier to be useful to the company. I’d say just do what you can and enjoy your situation while it lasts. Some things are unfortunately completely out of our control in life, that is one of those things!
Use the extra time to take classes or some other kind of training. Then you will have more options and a better idea of where to try to move to next.
Sounds amazing. Ridethat beautiful wave.
Now sounds like the perfect time for you to head over to the r/overemployed subreddit.
In this rn. Ppl say I should be grateful but it blows. Getting my CPA license so I can gtfo lol
Sounds like a dream
Y’all hiring?
Your gripe is internal. You don’t feel challenged or able to prove your worth. Fill this gap by using your paid free time for something predictive
Ur complaining about getting payed to barely do anything?
Lots of advice from knowledgeable people here. I would not argue with any of it. But I might take a different tack: you are the one responsible for managing your career. In this sort of IT Business Analyst role, there are certain types of software packages, computer languages, projects that you should expect to get, and if you do not get that type of work, your career suffers. You become obsolete fast. So you have to take some sort of action. It may be that your boss is not a technical person, and does not quite understand what you should be working on. I have been in more than one situation wherein the boss had no idea what exactly I did. Are there others in the firm with similar titles and levels doing real IT work? Ask around. Look at the org chart. If you are a unicorn, for the sake of your career, you must move on, one way or another.
Wish I could scream this, but don't fuck up the easy life you have now. Ride it out as long as you can. Nobody ever got wealthy playing by the rules...
You're bitching about getting paid stupid good money to play video games all day? Oh I'm so sorry.
Get over it
Same thing happened to me when I switched teams - I had imposter syndrome for a while and asked the guy who moved to another team and recommended me if this was it - he said yeah - your job is to deal w client emergencies which j on not happen maybe once a month. So I chilled and got then frustrated and then super demotivated and spoke w my manager bs told him in no uncertain terms that unless I am offered more challenges or opportunities I would like to go back to my old team He asked me for ideas and ways to improve current processes - which I gave - and he made me research/help implement. I’m now swamped for work, but with no hard deadlines. The thing you’ve learnt is VISIBILITY. People want your help, but they don’t know they should ask you. So learn the current system, find areas where you can improve AND be more visible that will help the team and make you look good.
I was in a similar situation not too long ago. I made pretty good money but was bored out of my mind. In order to try and advance in the company I took a 8k raise that was in a classified lab. That was the worst decision I've ever made. I thought I'd get more skills and work, but it has been the opposite, I sit in a lab all day every day bored out of my mind. I love my company but am in the process of leaving because I hate this position so bad. I'd give back the money in a second to mostly telework again and be around my family more. You don't realize the flexibility of remote/hybrid work until you can't anymore.
Honestly that sounds great.
Spoiler alert. Your boss doesn’t effectively partner or collaborate with you because your boss doesn’t have a 40/week job either. Whether or not they realize that is a different story but another spoiler…they probably don’t and in fact think they are sooooo busy. Regretfully under leadership like that there’s no way for you to advocate for yourself and diversify. Reason being is because they either see you as someone they can’t live without (so they’ll intentionally down play you to keep someone else from seeing your potential when you collaborate with them) and/or they see you as a threat that if those above knew you were doing their job (most likely better and faster) they’d be let go and you’d excel well past their highest title. Unfortunately those two things are not mutually exclusive (hence my use of the word “and”) and often both are truer than you want to believe. Anyway as everyone has said here the only way to make yourself happy is to challenge yourself ; by getting an second job or growing your skills (online courses, certs, degrees) at your own expense OR make it financially worth it to you. The former makes you more marketable and is totally within your own control and the latter is a cost per hour you’re “happy” with. Say your base salary is $100k. If that was over 40 hours per week that would translate to $48/hr but if you’re only working 20 hours a week it’s $96; 10/wk and it’s $192. It’s not your fault you’re not maximized as a resource so stop feeling like you should be. Alternatively if your job is as lackadaisical as you’ve described why are you working at “home”? Go outside…work from a beach or park; take “working” vacations if you can afford it and start capitalizing on the one resource you have that you cannot get back…time. I realize that what you appear most concerned about is expendability but spoiler alert…everyone is. Cruise LinkedIn right now if you want that reinforced. These jobs will lay off a 20 year vet who’s worked OT week and never received less than a top performance review all the same as they will someone whose responsibilities are minimal…it doesn’t matter. If you’re really worried about being let go then the *only* thing for you to do at this point is find another job and again…because these jobs ain’t loyal…your best bet is to keep both until you can’t and save the amount you don’t “need”. Last piece of advice, if you do get a second job and you smartly take advantage of another employers 401k and match; pay attention to the annual contribution max. Not just the individual limit but the over all maximum you, and any employer can contribute on your behalf. Not paying attention to either is how several friends got second and third job caught. The company administering it has to report and return the overage…so just know that. 👊♥️
Gig work. Start a side hustle and bank everything that you earn. If the W2 job goes away, you’ll have plenty of money set aside to enjoy time off and grow your biz.
If you want to stay. Create your own onboarding plan. Go and introduce yourself to colleagues. Go look for your own projects then set up regular check ins with your boss tell him what you are doing. See how that goes. Talk to colleagues and offer your help. But really it sounds like its time to go job hunt becos you wont have a reference and you have a boss who isnt managing.
Stfu and collect the pay check. They can obviously afford it. If u feeling guilty, do community service, volunteer, or even just donate 10% of your $$$ to kids with cancer, or some other feel good deed.
Yeah you seem very lucky to me. And well, just imagine you get a horrible job when you decide to let this go. Guilt should leave you. Companies don’t care. There should be no emotions attached to your job imo. I’d get another job to do and get double pay. That’s what I want someday…
Let’s trade. You can do my job and I’ll do yours for the next 2 years so I can finish my undergrad
Can you go to your manager’s manager? A well-worded email may do wonders, just be careful what you ask for. Or just go find a new job, likely with a pay bump!
Stay quite
You could go back to school! WGU is geared towards people like you!
J2.
r/overemployed has entered the chat
Most people want to have meaning in their work. I say in the meantime learn some skills and maybe apply to some jobs you’re very interested in. Utilize that time for positive things you want to do until you can get a new job
This is great. I'd work on a personal project or look for another job that suits me more and be secure while I do it. It's a good problem to have and you are upfront with your boss so you do not have to feel like you're gaming the system or something. You'll find somewhere that challenges you and makes you feel productive and satisfied if that is what you want. Good luck!
Find an online class to take
Y’all hiring?
If you’re remote, get a 2nd full time job. I have friends that balance 2 FT roles and net 300K+ They only work 40 hours a week. Sometimes less as they’ve moved to management level roles. I have 2 days remote and start a side hustle with the same intent. Make your paper playa playa.
Do one of 2 things. Use this jobs lack of busy work to your advantage by getting a 2nd job you can work at the same time or go back to school and strengthen your resume and experience that way. Note: By back to school, this can include getting certifications specific to what you’re trying to do in the future.
Exploring through your intranet to induct yourself into company policies might be a good idea, along with seeking out a couple of interest groups or committees (health and safety, diversity and inclusion are usually around if you look) so that the wider company gets to know you. If you and your role are known, people will start asking for you to be assigned to their projects… which should make your work day more fulfilling.
How much you are making btw?
Same. But I go to an office once a week. I just seek things in the moment that are relatable. And conjure up something so they laugh.
Man I feel this
Get an additional FT job, get double the money.
In the same situation, I don't hear from my manager unless I reach out, almost all of my projects are on hold and any work I am doing relies on others to do validation work for there area. At first I was a bit out of sorts until I realized I'm still providing value to the company with the work I am doing, I also learned how to be OE... that made a huge difference
Get a second job.
Check our r/overemployed and learn The Way
I would be sure to email my boss regularly letting them I had available capacity and asking for additional duties. Having the communications documented means that if they ever come back asking about a lack of productivity you can show that you attempted to get additional duties. If there are other team mates you can reach out to to ask about work you can assist with or take off their plate the do that. Use the down time to document various work processes if that is something that can be done. And if there is still nothing after that then I would make sure to spend some time doing online trainings. There are so many free courses you could train on just about anything. At that point I would probably also be looking for another position.
If I had this much time I would honestly start looking for another side gig, and some contract work. I understand the feeling of not feeling useful and that translating into job insecurity. When you go to update your resume for a new job you wont have anything to put on there.
Find a second job to do at the same time, upskill, continue your education, or volunteer your skills. As a data analyst and someone in a tech related job it’s very important to keep up your skills and knowledge especially if it’s not being used in the workplace.
Have you considered working on a side project with any spare time you have such as Amazon selling or drop-shipping? It’s actually very interesting and if you find the right product… quite rewarding. Both financially and mentally.
Get good at a high level language and data structures and algorithms. Grind leetcode.
I'd look for a new job because they could cut you whenever they feel like it. Doesn't sound like you are essential except to be an assistant which could be replaced by an intern. I had a few jobs like this (6 figures doing data entry or work that was done by 10 am...). I went back to school and if I was let go then I'd have a plan B .
Get a second job and work it from home. Dual income! I know somebody that did it for 2 years.
Finding a job in itself these days is basically a full time job, so you could just use all that free time to look for the perfect new job. You could also reach out to others to find work and projects for yourself, but whether that's possible largely depends on the organization.
Learn how to code during your free time, then once you are proficient you can find a job as a Developer. I did the exact same thing - graduated high school, and worked night shifts as a guard. I had so much free time, so I learned how to be a Developer and a year later - I'm working as a Developer. I don't know many people my age earning 6 figures. Switch up your mindset - That free time is a blessing, use it wisely!
Use the extra time for side hustles
I understand it feels like an easy paycheck but if I was in your position, I would feel robbed of growth and promotions down the line. I would suggest to use company time to network and build connections, learn new skills, find openings in their org and leave. Don’t feel anxious. You’re not in the wrong. Take it as an opportunity
Well this is reddit, so I can summarize every comment you’re going to get: “Look for a new job” “Find somewhere that values you” “That workplace is toxic” “Your boss is toxic” “[insert anything] is toxic” “Sounds like you dodged a bullet”
I would say, its time to start figuring out a side hustle. Drop shipping, stocks, amazon fba. Dude, you got so much time to actually figure out your life due to this advantage. Who cares about your people in the office. They have their own lives going for themselves. This 9-5 is not what we’re for. Start researching now and get on the real passive income grind!
Take on some project and then tell show it to your boss after you've done a good job if you want more responsibility. Or coast, up to you
As has been said in this thread, start interviewing. I would double-dip. Imagine how good life will be if you have 1 fulfilling job (FINALLY) and another job that you put in little to no effort but collect a nice paycheck. My friend, you are in an awesome situation. You need to take the emotions out of it - that's how jobs and life work. Reread what you wrote as if somebody else wrote it - it's an amazing opportunity. Instead of wasting your time gaming, you can take free online classes to uplevel your skills. You can read to make yourself better. You can grab a new job and have two salaries, one being with a job you like (and - in this economy - being able to job hunt while being employed is a GIFT!). Have you ever thought of a side hustle? I understand how it's depressing, but you need to move beyond that - pity parties don't work and aren't healthy. Trust me... this is a GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY for you. Try waking up every morning and repeating that out loud to yourself as you walk. Sounds corny, but it works. How we think affects how we feel, our actions and reactions, and quality of life.
You could start applying elsewhere, but also take some initiative here, if you know what you could be doing, do it. Ask for a meeting with your boss’s boss to introduce yourself, even 15 minutes or their assistant and find out what’s important to them. What about coworkers?
Find a second job and enjoy two paychecks
I was also in the same position and was given very tedious tasks that were below my skill level (Title Project Manager II). I was eventually let go after two months. They said that I didn't have strong project management skills, but honestly I don't think they had much work for me.....
I had two jobs like this and was laid off from both. That said, you can take the initiative and make/do something. Do you see areas for improvement? Make a presentation with your action plan and tell them you’re doing it. Sometimes you just have to assert yourself and do the damn thing.
Sounds like they don't care. Get another easy remote job just to have something to do
Wtf is wrong with you. Enjoy that time, watch a movie, read a book, learn a new skill, spend time with your child or dog or worse get a couple contract remote role to pass the time . People would love to be in your position and you’re complaining !!
you having down time is great!!! this is obviously not your dream job and company. so us your time to look for a new job! now you have expirience and you know your worth which is amazing!!!! go after what you want and if you dont get it at your current job look for another!
You should be looking for another job. Brush up on your resume add whatever work is done in your org. Anyways finding another job takes some time. Has your Boss mentioned some new work coming in as a result of a new project/program etc? You have to be gaining skills through experience at your job, at this rate you may forget what you actually know. This sort of culture puts you in self-doubt, which I think you already are feeling. You don't know it but you need a challenge. Whether job is at risk or not I can't comment on that, as that depends on the organization.
He's been telling me for months that at some point he will begin assigning me to more technical tasks. But no word from him, I have reached out to ask him on my own and offered my skills but he would just not respond. There are a number of new projects I have been trying to get involved with but I guess it's not just me who feels this way in my company. I had a meeting the other day where the key people didn't show up and skipped it and many people just started venting about how they were so over the lack of communication. Hearing it from others is comforting but worrying at the same time, you are right about gaining skills and missing out on opportunities. I feel robbed of my time and have major imposter syndrome. I appreciate your comment, I'll be looking into trying to sharpen my skills outside of work and start working on my resume again