I don’t have enough work to do — should I ask for more?

I’m working from home in a new job and, honestly, I don’t have enough to do. I’ve offered to help out my colleagues, but was told not to worry, there are slow periods occasionally. I have to submit a daily log and I don’t want to look unproductive. I’m also going crazy doing “busy work.” Should I ask my boss for more work? Or will that look bad for not keeping busy?

I have never experienced an employee looking bad by asking for more work to do. You are not supposed to have to figure out how to keep busy at work — you are supposed to be like the rest of us and struggle to find time to take a break. I admire that you want to do more and that you are looking for ways to add value, as is your employer, I’m sure. However, rather than just doing that on your own, tell your boss that you are underutilized and that you are trying to pitch in to do more wherever you can.

Share that you want to take on more responsibility on a more permanent, official basis as part of your job description. This way you are demonstrating an admirable work ethic and getting credit (and eventually reward) for doing more. One caveat: If you don’t have enough to do and they don’t have more for you, your boss could realize that perhaps they don’t need the role, so don’t inadvertently talk yourself out of a job.

Gregory Giangrande has over 25 years of experience as a chief human resources executive. Hear Greg every Wednesday at 9:35 a.m. on iHeartRadio 710 WOR. Email: [email protected]. Follow: GoToGreg.com and on LinkedIn.