The rise of performative work
It’s not what you do. It’s how ostentatiously you do it
IN AN EPISODE of “Seinfeld”, a vintage TV sitcom, the character of George Costanza reveals the secret of pretending to work: act irritated. He shakes his head, frowns and sighs to demonstrate the technique. “When you look annoyed all the time, people think that you’re busy.” In comments posted below this clip on YouTube, visitors report with delight that the tactic really does work and offer a few tips of their own: walk around the office carrying manila envelopes, advises one.
This article appeared in the Business section of the print edition under the headline “Office theatrics”
Business January 8th 2022
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From the January 8th 2022 edition
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