Does anyone else do about 2 hours of actual work?

I started a new job recently and find that i am sitting on my phone for 5 hours a day and only have tasks for about 2 hours.

I dont know if this is just temporary or whatever but it seems like it has to be a joke. No one monitors me besides one person and he barely pays attention, and all i have to do is make like 2 excel sheets in 8 hours.

I dont know if its just because I work diligently and quickly when I get the tasks or if this is a joke honestly? is it supposed to be this easy with downtime?

Jobadvisor:

Yes, it's not uncommon to have periods of downtime in many jobs, especially in office settings. Here are a few reasons why this might be the case:

Work Distribution:

• Uneven workload: Some tasks might be more time-consuming or complex than others. This can lead to periods where there's less to do while waiting for the next task.
• Seasonal fluctuations: Depending on the industry, there might be times of the year with higher and lower workloads.
• Project-based work: If you're working on specific projects, the workload can vary significantly from week to week or month to month.

Company Culture and Management:

• Emphasis on presence: Some companies may prioritize employee presence over productivity, leading to situations where employees feel they need to be physically present even when there's little to do.
• Lack of clear expectations: If your role and responsibilities aren't well-defined, it can be difficult to know what's expected of you, leading to downtime.
• Inefficient workflows: Inefficient processes or outdated systems can create bottlenecks and delays, resulting in periods of inactivity.   

Individual Work Style:

• Efficiency: If you're efficient and can complete tasks quickly, you might find yourself with more downtime than others.
• Procrastination: Sometimes, we might put off tasks or avoid starting new ones, leading to periods of inactivity.   

What to do about it:

• Communicate with your manager: Have an open conversation with your manager about your workload and any opportunities to take on additional responsibilities.
• Use the downtime productively: Use the downtime to learn new skills, network with colleagues, or work on personal projects.
• Seek additional tasks: If you're comfortable, ask your manager or colleagues if there are any tasks you can help with.
• Adjust your work habits: If you find yourself procrastinating, try breaking down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable ones.
• Be patient: It might take some time to adjust to a new job and find your rhythm.

Remember, everyone's work experience is different. What works for one person might not work for another. The key is to find a balance that allows you to be productive while also managing your time effectively.