How to say you're not busy at work?

[northernballer]

Our place made a few redundancies last year and it's looking like the same will happen this year. I'm one of 4 people doing a similar job and I'm pretty sure at least one of us will be made redundant by the end of the year.

Due to a bit of a restructure I think I could probably do my job in half the hours. I'm hybrid working and when I'm at home I could easily do nothing, I'm reasonably well thought of and efficient at getting things done so get left alone unless I ask for help. I meet all my deadlines and objectives.

My question is, how can I say I need more to do without laying myself open to being made redundant? I don't particularly like my job but I do want to keep it as it's convenient and well paid for what it is. I am bored though and would like to do something rather than string my work out so I'm busy on my office days! How can I make it a positive at my next 1:1?

How long have you been working there? I am asking to see whether it's feasible to frame this as 'now I'm more familiar with the role, tasks etc. I am finding I am completing things more quickly, I'd be happy to take on more tasks / responsibilities etc.'

Err... don't! Well done at being so efficient, enjoy!

Coming up to six years, although changed roles a few times. It's quite a small company so I do a bit of everything!

Just to add - generally I would also say do this gradually. Don't go in with 'I am completing my job in half the time I have'. Say you have a little extra capacity (due to improvements in your ability / processes etc) and go from there.

Ok so then if you want more work just ask gradually, I'm finding I'm working more quickly, I have a little extra capacity and periodically until you feel you have a good workload.

First off I'd use the spare time to update your CV just in case. Also, are there any courses/qualifications you should do in case you lose your job? I'd get that out of the way first to prepare whilst I had time.

Then, as others have suggested, mention that you have a little capacity to take on something else to help our.

I'd just say that you're thinking about your professional development and are ready to take on more responsibilities, and would it be possible to shadow your manager for a period of time, as you'd like to learn more about their day to day.

Agree! I’d find something else to do with my extra time. The only reward for hard work is more work!

I'd just say you have a little extra capacity at the moment, if there are any projects you could work on.

The way to avoid the chop is doing your work better than at least one of your colleagues and being easy to manage. Asking for more work does not come into this.

Say nothing.

Dont say anything. or if you really feel need to say "with al the changes happening recently if theres anything else you want me to take on let me know".

'I have capacity'

Also agree say nothing. Especially right now. If they are looking at redundancies and you go in that you have half a weeks capacity it will make it incredibly easy for them. That or they may suggest moving your job to part time.

Once the redundancies are over you may find more work comes your way anyway

I don’t think I would say anything until you’re sure the redundancies are out of the way.

I wouldn’t mention capacity as such. I’d say “I’ve noticed (this thing) and would like to lead a project (fixing this thing)”. Or suggest that you look into a new thing that will add value. Or offer to sort that thing that everyone hates and the team is putting off.

That puts you into the ‘doing more than your direct remit’ camp and you may be more likely to keep your job.

agree with this. Maybe even be completely upfront and say 'With potential redundancies I obviously want to keep my job. If there's anything I can learn to do, or help out with if I have free time, please let me know."

I don't agree with the posters saying don't offer to do more at all - it makes sense to make yourself as valuable as possible. But no need to go crazy - make it sound more as though you want to be a team player and help if you have free time occasionally rather than always having free time. However if you ask a few times and don't get anything - don't keep banging the drum or they might then start asking questions.

I think this is what I'm aiming for! I'm better than one of them at least, but I worry me barging in saying I need more work will draw attention for all the wrong reasons!

That said I found out on Friday that one of my major projects isn't being renewed, so I'm thinking of saying now xxx has gone I have some spare capacity and would like the opportunity to work on something else across the wider business? And then keep everything crossed I don't get fired next month.

Surely if you have a project dropping off more work will be found for you naturally? It’s not about you finding capacity as you clearly have it. If they reduce your team you will all have a chance to apply for remaining roles, you wouldn’t be selected based on workload.