‘Fauxductivity’ A Growing Trend in Offices

Workhuman's latest Global Human Workplace Index uncovers a troubling trend: nearly 40% of executives and 37% of managers admit to faking work activity, a phenomenon known as 'fauxductivity.' This behavior not only undermines productivity but also highlights serious flaws in workplace culture.

The study, which surveyed 3,000 full-time employees in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Ireland, reveals a clear link between productivity and workplace culture. Managers, who are expected to uphold corporate values, are increasingly participating in faux productivity practices. This trend suggests that pressure from upper management is influencing managers to adopt similar behaviors. Remarkably, 69% of managers who admit to faking productivity also see it as a common issue within their teams.

“The impulse to fake activity due to well-being-related reasons indicates that employees do not feel comfortable voicing their needs,” states the company. 

Fauxductivity practices, such as falsifying timesheets or using mouse jigglers to create the illusion of activity, reflect deeper issues within toxic work environments. The study links fauxductivity to burnout and a quest for work-life balance, emphasizing the need for a supportive work culture where employees can address their well-being concerns openly.

To combat this issue, organizations should focus on the quality of results rather than hours worked. Redesigning job roles to align with organizational goals and incorporating employee feedback are crucial steps. According to McLean & Co., as reported by MBN, effective job redesign involves assessing pain points and strengths and implementing targeted solutions. Key components of job redesign include core tasks, structure, environment, and interactions. This approach can help move away from superficial productivity and foster a more genuinely effective work environment.

“Poor mental health can have a significant impact on both individual and organizational performance, and companies that ignore this issue do so at their peril. By investing in employees' mental health, companies can create a more productive and engaged workforce,” says Laura Tamayo,  Director, Bayer.