Hybrid Hurdle: Remote Workers Pretend to Be Active Online

Working remotely at least for some days of the week has become the new normal. Many workers have welcomed the increased flexibility that comes with it, pushing back against the claim that working outside the office has a negative impact on productivity.

Many companies have incorporated activity tracking tools to ensure workers are actually working, which has given rise to gadgets like “mouse jigglers” that move workers’ cursors to make them look busy online. But it hasn’t gone unnoticed.

Wells Fargo (WFC) fired more than a dozen people last month for using apps or devices that simulate online activity, according to Bloomberg , citing a filing with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority.

Of course, you don’t need an app to pretend to be busy…

Mice on the Move

In a Harris Poll survey from last month, more than a third (38%) of Millennial workers admitted to moving their mouse to appear online while working remotely.

The practice is part of “productivity theater” in which employees spend time doing performative work such as scheduling late-night emails to look like they’re working long hours, or attending meetings they don’t need to be in just to show their faces.

According to a survey from business analytics firm Visier , 43% of employees spend 10 hours or more a week engaged in performative tasks, including:

•   Responding to emails or instant messages as quickly as possible, even when they don’t require immediate attention (42%)

•   Scheduling emails or instant messages for later (36%)

•   Attending unnecessary meetings (36%)

•   Keeping laptop screen awake while not actively working (28%)

The Boss Might Be Watching

Some workers have good reason to appear busy. A report from ExpressVPN found that more than three-quarter (78%) of employers use some kind of surveillance software to track employee productivity.

In a report from the New York Times , office workers complained that surveillance software created an incentive to appear busy instead of doing things that might be productive – such as chatting with coworkers, or taking a walk to clear your head and brainstorm – but can’t be recorded and quantified.

Understandably, employers want their remote workers to be, well, working, instead of catching up on their favorite TV shows. But on the flipside, employees are stressed out by the thought of their bosses watching their every move. Something that might help: A study from research firm Gartner found that when a company explained the purpose and scope of their monitoring program, employees were far more accepting of it.

Check it out

Please understand that this information provided is general in nature and shouldn’t be construed as a recommendation or solicitation of any products offered by SoFi’s affiliates and subsidiaries. In addition, this information is by no means meant to provide investment or financial advice, nor is it intended to serve as the basis for any investment decision or recommendation to buy or sell any asset. Keep in mind that investing involves risk, and past performance of an asset never guarantees future results or returns. It’s important for investors to consider their specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile before making an investment decision.

The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. These links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement. No brands or products mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this content.

Communication of SoFi Wealth LLC an SEC Registered Investment Advisor

SoFi isn't recommending and is not affiliated with the brands or companies displayed. Brands displayed neither endorse or sponsor this article. Third party trademarks and service marks referenced are property of their respective owners.

SOSS24062403