Is it better to be underworked or overworked? In the underworked scenario, assume utilization is not a factor and that you are billable, just not actually working very much/hard.

like
Posting as :
works at
You are currently posting as works at
Highlighted IconHIGHLIGHTED

I was in an underworked situation not too long ago. The team was fun I was coasting through but it was also frustrating as I saw no career progression. It did provide me an opportunity to develop some softskillls though. For me over worked is good as long as I am making that decision and I’m not being told to do it lol

like

I’ll take former every time. Jan/Feb I worked 40 days straight 12-16 hour days. Still recovering from it mentally and physically. I told myself this is my last busy season. Now I work smarter not harder, and if that means stopping after 10 hours when the rest of the group works 12+ then so be it

like
Recent IconRecent

Underworked assuming you a motivated enough to use your spare time for self improvement

like

I was underworked and I took the opportunity to get involved in more internal things and get certifications for the area I'd like to go into.

like

Definitely overutilized is better for me. I love my job and really struggle to stay motivated when I'm not allocated at 120%.

likefunny

As always, moderation is key. You need both scenarios in balance

like

Underworked. I work from home a few days a week and workout 5x a week, eat healthy/meal prep, read, practice meditation, learned about investing, keep in touch with friends/family, see my SO during the workday, write, watch tv, take naps, all during the workday. In the beginning, when I was learning how to perform in my role, I was drowning and being on this side is definitely better.

likesmart

What time of internal work do you do?

OP, great question. Think I never heard it before.
First, that depends a lot on your preferences. What you value most; what your short and long term goals are; what’s your endgame; etc.
.
Being overworked can be an incredible lever for your career: you learn more, become more resilient, have interesting stories to tell (work experience) and (usually) form deeper bonds within your team. But it comes at the cost of your health, both physical and mental (they are equally important!), family, and your free time (entertainment + self improvement).
.
For me: I’d take overworked if it’s not all the time.
If I can have a normal life at the office for 80% of the time, and 20% being overworked, that’s a good balance (this ratio can also change through your career and life moment).
I hit the hospital twice in the past (I’m only 2 years out of college!) and don’t wanna be any close to that anymore. But that’s me.

likehelpful

Op, in that case I would stay in the easier project.
You’re gonna have a ton of chances of being overworked in the future (I think).
Also, I take in consideration that most of us will left consulting in ~5 years. I mean, if the recognition is the same, you don’t need to rush to learn, agree?
Hope that helps.

like

Good for everyone else wanting to improve themselves lol if utilization was not a factor I’d 100% rather be underutilized. Being “bored” is a luxury

likesmart

Personally I’ve been in fifth gear for the past four years. I’m ready to slow down for a couple of months and find some balance before hitting it hard again

like

Join us...

like

A lot of people here are trying to pull a consultant on me here. “It’s all about balance.”

So let me specify: the question does not leave room for balance. You choose one or the other. Obviously everyone prefers some balance. Some overworked days and some underworked days.

If you need further assistance in understanding, imagine you can choose between two projects with similar levels of recognition for a job well done: 40-50 hours of week (for more like 10 hours/week of actual work), or 60-80
hours a week (for 60-80 hours of actual work).

The choice between skills/career and sanity is obvious (or is it? can boredom can drive you insane?) I didn’t come here for that obvious insight. I came here to ask a question that draws on your personal experience for specific insight.

Thank you to the people who answered correctly. Those who may have given it thought, but really just pointed out the obvious, pls fix.

like

How do ppl ask tho questions smh underworked any day

like

I was severely underworked at my first project out of undergrad. I’d walk into the client site each day with maybe 2 hours worth of actual work to do. It made me feel like I wasn’t capable of much, despite graduating with what, in my opinion, is a pretty impressive degree a few months earlier. I hated it and was pretty depressed.
After two or three months of this, I finally wedged myself into a position where I owned a small project at the client site. It grew and grew and I remained the POC for the work. I was working 12 - 16 hr days, usually with no weekends. This lasted about 3.5 months until the project was over. It was hard me — both mentally and physically — but I learned so much from the experience. Despite my complaining to friends that work a traditional 9-5 and would actually have fun on the weekends, I loved feeling useful to my team. I’d take being overworked any day.
I am, however, still at the beginning of my career. I know this will change once I shift gears and start a family. At that point, I feel like I’ll definitely prioritize my family and will prefer to be underworked if it means I get to spend more time with them

like

Well, it’s hard to use the downtime for “self-improvement.” You have to look busy while you’re onsite, right?

likefunny

Fair point, but you can be creative. Copy and paste information into a word doc and study it. Are there any topics even tangentially related to your project? Work on whatever those things are. IMO if you truly have nothing to do then you should bite the bullet and ask to be reassigned because, though no fault of your own, you being a resource on that project is not in your client’s best interest.

like

In my case, I first looked for additional opportunities to add value to my project. It became a big boon for me as the additional value I was able to bring to the project allowed me to develop a strong client relationship and a great reputation on the project. After that, I was able to take a couple hours here and there to take meetings for internal work or complete trainings for internal certifications on my laptop, without drawing any judgement from the client or my team.

like

Age and goals are important. I’m almost 48 and at my terminal level. I make good money so if I can get by without having to kill myself with 12-16 hour days, then I’m fine with that. I did PLENTY of those in my 20’s and 30’s. I’m not going to promote any higher so I’m okay coasting when I can. Unfortunately, those “coast” periods don’t come often. But when they do, I don’t feel guilty enjoying them like I used to.

likeupliftinghelpful

The problem is I’m 20 years younger and feel like I’m at my terminal level. Not sure if I’m just impatient and trying to ruin a good thing out of boredom or not.

like

I’d err on underworked for two reasons:

1) It leaves room for creativity and innovation. We’re all so obsessed with getting things done that don’t add value.
2) Adding voluntary work is probably easier than taking work away in the overworked scenario.

likesmart

Experience both. I'm sure you will anyway. When you're underworked you may be nervous you'll be released and feel guilty about not being productive enough. Then be careful what you wish for. When overworked you'll be jealous of friends who go out and meet people, work out and explore. And you'll wonder why you aren't paid by the hour when billing 70+ hours.

Then you'll learn to set boundaries in an effective way, you'll choose better companies and roles and the ebb and flow of over and under is accepted for what it is as temporary or if not then you take action to fix it in a calm directed way aligned with your values.

like

Underworked and overpaid

like

that’s me, it’s hard to turn down free money

Overworked better for career... underworked better for life

like

Related Posts

I firmly believe leadership makes the difference.

Not only, it highlins each one's value, but especially spreads this value among others.
I'm speaking about life, in a broad sense, which also include work life, but it is not limited to that.

Looking for any kind of suggestion to improve my leadership: books, experiences, attitudes, daily-routine, ...

Thank you!

like

Anyone has first hand experience of Accenture CN India? Hows the work culture and work life fit for supply chain?

TIA

like

H&R Block Hi Fishes, I'm interviewing with H&R block India and it might be going in the right direction. I just wanted to know how the work life balance at H&R block is and some insight into their variable pay system. H&R Block Tata Consultancy Tata Consultancy Infosys IBM

like

Hi All, I got one offer from EY GDS, in the offer letter, it's mentioned as TC_IN_GDS_QE. Does any idea about the section? Is it worth switching from Tcs to EY? also WLB, the Work culture in EY compare to TCS ?

like

Interviewed recently with @VillageMD. Anyone have any insight about the remote Medical assistant positions? Preferably someone who does or did work in that type of position with this company. How was the workload? How much time is usually spent on the phone answering calls?

like

Hi! I’m doing some research on employee benefits (medical insurance, 401k, HSA/FSA, commuter benefits) and was hoping to connect with People specialists or HR professionals in the comp & benefits space. I’m trying to better understand any pain points or challenges you might face with utilization/enrollment. Anyone interested in connecting? Thank you!

Hi All, I am Java developer having 7 yoe. Recently I gave interview for this Landmark group

Is
Landmark Group or @Landmark digital a product based company?

How good is job security? How good is work life balance?

I am looking for permanent opportunity where I can stay for longer duration. Is this the right company?

How are hikes in this company?

like

I've been in the world of consulting for several years; amazed at how much more analysts and others feel the need to be constantly utilized. Seeing posts about how holidays impact the metric (cont'd)

like

Has anyone worked at Wolverine WorldWide? I have an interview and am curious what their culture is actually like, work/life balance, etc.

like

What are some questions to ask in an interview to assess culture and WLB without sounding like you don’t want to work hard or put in long hours when it’s needed? And what are some red flags?

like

Private equity in London...? Thoughts on work life balance / comp / deal flow...?

like

Anyone have any insight on the culture/Wlb at Union Square Advisors? It is a tech focused IB in SF. Looks like a great firm, but they seem a little lean in the VP and Associate positions now.

like

About to interview with Neuberger Berman, hadn’t heard of them before. Anyone have any thoughts on their culture and WLB?

like

CDK Global Inc If someone is working or know about this company please share your suggestion.
How is work life balance, work culture and job security.

CDK Global Inc CDK Global

like

What is your ytd utilization and Company? Mine is 98% as of the end of june. @ Kroll

like

Anybody work within the ABS space? I just received an offer for a CMBS Origination Associate Banking role, and was wondering what the hours are like. Thank you!

like

Hi Fishes, How is Collabera with permanent position and having end Client as Shell india markets pvt ltd ? Since, this will be a model to work from Client Location, will there be any sword hanging around Job security and Work life balance? Notice period mentioned is 30 days from Collabera. Collabera technologies Collabera Shell india markets pvt ltd Shell

like

My partner of 5 years ended our relationship last night. I’m shattered and feel absolutely sick, and I know the healing isn’t going to be easy. We were on the verge of an engagement and I was ready to spend the rest of my life with him.

I don’t know how to approach work during this time. I think I can get by, but I’m definitely not 100%. Should I talk to my boss about it? My team is close-knit and comfortable around each other, but I don’t know if it’s “appropriate.” What would you do?

like

What is PWP industrials culture/wlb in NYC?

like

More Posts

Sleepy freckle nose little dog.

Post Photo
like
like

Hello guys. Can someone in EY GDS assurance WAM tell me how the work life balance is there ?
Is BCM better or WAM? Need your opinion assurance guys !

like

Anyone working at Xavient Digital, Noida??
How is it? Good for long term? My friend has an offer.. 7 yr Exp 23L CTC. App support engineer.

like

Any Dallas M 🐠 to hang out and show me around?

What kind of sign on bonuses does PwC give in their Workforce Transformation practice? Looking at manager level roles.

like

Can anyone recommend a good therapist in the Arlington, VA area?

like

Please help me with unblocking DM, by liking the post.

like

I learn quickly compared to many of my peers. I'm working with a staff that learns very, very slowly and is not meeting expectations after 6 months. Tips/advice on how not to lose it?

like

Hello, any experiences by H1B holders going to the open and allowed countries like Mexico or Turkey and coming back into the US?

likefunny

What Becker package is the normal one? I don't want to accidentally buy an over the top one that goes over the spending allowance, but with direct bill it doesnt tell you what the firm is paying

like

Mid level producer salaries at some of the tech companies? Apple / Google / Amazon? Just generally curious as I’d like to jump over to client side and think any of those would be cool

like

My confession is I had some ‘fun time’ with myself two times today.

likefunny

Before kids i was high-maintenance, but kids and EY made me tired exhausted woman, but I’m just 35! So i took a week off, kids are with my mom and I have a week to remedy. What could be my must haves for just one week. Haircut, mani pedi, massage is a must, but what else - want to do something for body and face - what are your favs? Want to wake up my sexy stunning woman locked inside mom and auditor.

like
like

Is it normal for brand side to be less process focused? Genuinely think agencies I’ve been at prior had to function like an assembly line in some way for accounts to be justified. But I liked this, holds everyone accountable.

Brand side seems so “chill” but like too chill.

like

Is it possible to switch from PM/program management to strategy? Any advice?

like

Which would you pick:

Range Rover Classic (c. 1992)

OR

Hummer H1 (c. 2003)

like

Hi Fishes,

How is pwc india for SAP consultant? The kind of projects & wlb

Additional Posts in Consulting

Just walked into the kitchen at the client and was hit with some nostalgia - someone warmed up a wild berry poptart in the toaster

likefunnyuplifting

Currently a C at Deloitte (3.5 years since graduated UG) in my promotion year to SC. Being reached out to for project manager role at slalom. Would this be a good step up? Or stay put?

like

Is it rare for someone from MBB to move to big four?

like

Went on three dates in last three weeks. Two of them backed out when they came to know that I travel everyweek. The one left was unhappy this morning when I got up at 4 to catch my flight. FML !

like
like

My greatest asset is my temperament 😂

like

Fucking hate Delta. Missed my flight. I was with my 4 months old 👶 daughter. She was hungry and crying I requested em to let me check in bag early instead waiting in Line. They said no. Morons.

like

What kind of sign on bonuses does PwC give in their Workforce Transformation practice? Looking at manager level roles.

like

Are the six sigma certs actually worth it to do?

like

If you join any of the Big 4 as an experienced hire, is it possible to get laid off before your first project?

like

left the office an hour before my flight, had time to grab a beer before boarding. Love small market airports.

like

Hi EY, Joining firm in couple of weeks. Was wondering how early onboaring tour 2 email and i9 form email is being sent out from the joining date! Anyone who recently joined please share your timeline.
EY

like

A bowl for "thirsty" consultants on travel a good idea or nah? Kind of like that movie about an elite hook up ring for working professionals who don't have time to date

like

Has anyone or know anyone been fired/layed off and got in another big 4?

like

Has anyone here worked at KKR or Blackstone? What has your experience been like? Asking for a friend.

like

What days is PwC off in December?

like

Guys - how do you handle back hair? Ladies - is it horrible if a guy has some?

like

Geek 🐠: Taking suggestions for a new video game, ideally available on Apple TV (we have the gaming remote) and something I could play piecemeal. Portal, Zelda, and Mass Effect are past favorites

like

Deloitte = Slytherin, PWC = Gryffindor, EY = Ravenclaw, KPMG = Hufflepuff

likefunny

Anyone have any first hand experience of seeing the benefits of putting Big 4 on resume?

like

New to Fishbowl?

Download the Fishbowl app to
unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.
That was just a preview…
Sign Up to see all discussions
  • Discover what it’s like to work at companies from real professionals
  • Get candid advice from people in your field in a safe space
  • Chat and network with other professionals in your field
Sign up in seconds to unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.

Already a user?
Login here

Share

Embed this post

Copy and paste embed code on your site

Preview

Download the
Fishbowl app

See what’s happening in your industry
from the palm of your hand.

A phone with Fishbowl app

Send download link to your phone

OR

Scan your QR code to download
Fishbowl app on your mobile

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Messaging rates may apply

Download app

Sign up for free to view this conversation on Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Already have an account? Log in

Sign up for free to continue using Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use(New) and Privacy Policy(New)
Messaging rates may apply

Already have an account? Log in

For account settings, visit Fishbowl on Desktop Browser or

General

Legal