Editor’s note: Make It Missoula is collaborating with the Missoula Job Service to help people find local jobs so that they can move home to Missoula or continue to call Missoula home.
We regularly post both job listings and job hunting and interview advice. Be sure to watch the Make It Missoula Facebook page for new job listing announcements.
By JENNIFER LODINE-CHAFFEY
Do you ever feel that you have nothing to do at work? Do you have moments when you’ve completed all of your daily tasks and sit at your desk staring out the window? Workplace ennui can strike anyone from time to time. Here is a list of things to do that just might help you overcome your boredom and help further your career:
- Seek additional assignments—I know it sounds like a no-brainer, but many individuals wait for their supervisors to provide them with work. Take the initiative! If you don’t have anything to do, ask your manager for extra projects.
- Learn new computer programs—If you have downtime, it is often a wise idea to refresh your knowledge of the computer programs you use daily. If your office uses a specific operating system, database, or software you are not familiar with, utilize your free time by taking tutorials or reading manuals about these programs. This knowledge may increase your value to your company.
Read books that help with your professional development—Reading books that pertain to your job can be beneficial. There are numerous helpful books on networking, leadership, and marketing that could help you reframe your thinking or develop innovative and new strategies for your workplace.- Update your company’s social media page—Does your company have a Facebook page, a website, or a Pinterest account? Has it been updated recently? If not, take the initiative to make sure all the hyperlinks are functional, the phone numbers are correct, and the pictures are up to date. You could also create a new post or pin a unique picture that could generate business and interest in your company.
- Socialize with your co-workers—One of the best ways of having a cohesive work force is by building friendships and rapport between co-workers. Do you know Sally in cubicle Q? If not, perhaps this is a good opportunity to briefly drop by and learn a bit about her. Being friendly is usually the best policy in the work place.
- Update the company manual—If the company’s manual needs editing or hasn’t been updated in a while, ask your manager if you can work on it. Your company will appreciate your resourcefulness!
- Organize your desk—While this may seem like meaningless busy work, a clean desk is often the sign of an orderly and efficient worker. By keeping a tidy work area, you show that you take pride in your job. In addition, being organized will help you be more productive!
Imaginatively challenge yourself! With just a few creative ideas you can turn boredom into creativity.
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Looking for a job in Missoula? Be sure to check out our Missoula Job Listings. Be sure you “LIKE” the Missoula Job Service Facebook Page for daily post on job opening. You’ll also find Missoula-area information on Job Hunting Resources, Job Hunting Tips, Job Interview Tips, tips for writing Cover Letters and Resumes.
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Jennifer Lodine-Chaffey was born in Missoula and received an MA in History from the University of Montana in 2006. She currently works as an Employment Consultant at the Missoula Job Service, an organization that offers programs and services to assist employers and job seekers alike. Those looking for employment can view job openings on our job board, website, and social media outlets. Employment Consultants provide résumé reviews, conduct practice interviews, and offer skills testing.
The Job Service also provides a self-service area where job seekers have access to phones, a fax machine, a copier, and computers. Our qualified staff also offers business consulting services, including employee recruitment and retention assistance. Additionally, we provide financial support for businesses looking to train both new and current employees.
We are here to help our community!