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Fear-free vacation, part II: look busy while you recharge
If you haven't read the first 10 suggestions for looking busy without actually working on vacation, check out yesterday's post. If you've already been there, let's keep pushing ahead. We have even more for you today, thanks to the slothful talents of me and the rest of the Gadling team. Leave it to a group of bloggers to find so many ways to look hardcore without actually lifting a finger that it takes two days to get it all out. Many thanks, in particular, to Scott Carmichael, who looked like he was working overtime to show you how to look like you're working overtime.
1. Conference calls make you look good
Try to attend a few conference calls while you're on the road. Dial in, and put your phone on mute. Light up a cigar, pour a drink, or lounge on the beach with a book. At the beginning of the call, mention that you're in a public place (because you're on vacation) and can't contribute too much because you don't want to broadcast proprietary information.
2. Phone around the office
Randomly call people with whom you work about things you'd normally discuss with them. Don't raise any heavy issues – stick to quick questions.
Gallery: Bucegi Mountain, Romania
3. Pick the right background noise
If the person on the other end of the phone can hear the beach or the half-naked coed from whose taut stomach you're about to lick some alcoholic concoction, you're making a mistake. Turn off the jets for a second, and call from your in-room hot tub.
4. Instant message games
If the company uses an internal instant message system, be logged on as much as possible. When you leave your room, put up an "unavailable" message that doesn't reflect your vacation. "Grabbing a quick bite" and "back in a few" are just vague enough.
5. Put social media to work for you
Do any of your coworkers follow you on Twitter? Pop an occasional update like "Just realized what this report needs!"
6. Craft an effective "out of office" message
Mention that you'll be out – give a time zone but not necessarily a location – and mention that you'll be checking e-mail and voicemail periodically. Provide details on how to reach you "in an emergency."
Have you taken a look at yesterday's post yet?
