How to Stay Productive While the Boss is Away

Most of us have been there: we look ahead at the monthly schedule and notice that the boss is out of town on business for a week. Although we don't like to admit it, we are immediately inundated with thoughts of thirty minute coffee breaks and long lunches and to be honest, I think most sensible bosses expect that to a degree. The expression, "While the cat's away, the mice will play," isn't a widely known phrase for no reason. It is important, however, to keep your head on your shoulders when reporting to work on a day that your boss isn't in town.

Watch Out for the Watch Dog

Most head haunchos almost always designate a staffer (possibly you) to keep an eye on things while he/she is away. Many times this designated individual's "mission" is not shared with the rest of the staff so that the boss can gain a more accurate view of what exactly is being done (or rather, not being done) while the cat is away. It is not so important for you to play detective and find out who this person is because, let's face it, there could be no person. It is important, however, to try and carry yourself as you would if your boss was just inside his or her office. This way, if there is an informant (very James Bond, isn't it?), there won't be much to report back on you and the less your name is mentioned in that conversation, the better.

Slacking Off Leads to Big Pile Ups

So you took a half-day off? Played on the web all day? No big deal right? Not so much. You see, your boss will get back and notice that your inbox is quite a bit fuller than it usually is. You can bet that the boss didn't get to his position by not seeing the obvious. You'll be sweating the possibility that your boss will know you were slacking. And you'll be spending the following week working double-time, which is never any fun.

Don't Fall in With the "Wrong Crowd"

You know those co-workers who spend the entire first hour of the day standing over someone's desk talking the latest American Idol gossip. It's best to steer clear of such people, really always, but especially this week. These types of personalities thrive on absentee bosses and will drag anyone and everyone who will listen down with them. This can be problematic because, while you're co-worker starts in on her reenactment of Dancing With the Stars, you have to kindly suggest that she let you get back to work without offending her. One suggestion is to pick up the phone to make an "emergency" call, or something equally abrupt so that she will have no choice but to let you work.

Avoid Playing the Role of Junior Boss

So you are the watch dog? My advice is to do just as your boss instructed: be mindful of co-worker's productivity and remain aware. This is by no means an opportunity for you to try on your "Big Girl" shoes. Being trusted with this responsibility is a direct reflection of the opinion your boss has of your professionalism and character. Don't tarnish that by having word getting back to your boss of you being perched in his or her chair with your feet propped up all week, while snapping orders at various assistants. And trust me, word always gets back.

In my opinion, it's fine to go ahead and take the ten minute coffee break or stay a little longer at lunch. It can be refreshing and most executives wouldn't be bothered by it. But be conscious of your actions while the boss is out of town and try your best to act as you do when the big chair is occupied.