How to look busy at work

• Carry a notebook write stuff down. Get a nice notebook and pen and write stuff down whenever you have nothing to do and want to look busy. It doesn't matter what you write - list your groceries, the lyrics to your favorite song - the point is to just write.

• Walk quickly and look "slightly frazzled". Be on the move with a pen behind your ear and notebook in hand - even if you're just going to the water cooler for a drink. Depending on your level of comfort, it doesn't hurt to have your hair looking like it needs a comb and your clothes a little disheveled. After all, you don't have time to worry about that when you're as busy as you are.

• Prepare your screen and desk in advance. You want our desktop workspace to look like you're up to important stuff. It helps to have some key spreadsheets ready to maximize in case your boss walks by.

• Spread the word to others. You've gotta capitalize on the ability to mention projects (big, small, tiny) to as many people as possible. Don't be obnoxious, just mention whenever you possibly can that you're "kinda" involved in various projects.

• Occasionally send late-night emails. Every now and then, send your boss an e-mail from home, or post something at an odd hour that will catch their attention. For example, update the numbers at 11:20 p.m. Even if you did nothing at work all day, they'll see that and think you were so busy at work that now you're burning the midnight oil too.

When all else fails, heck, just go ahead and try being busy. Maybe you'll find it's not so bad after all. Maybe. Or you could continue to work on the tips outlined above until you become an expert at looking busy at work.