The term ‘presenteeism’ is well-established, this is when employees feel too guilty to call in sick or force themselves to work when their mental health is not up to it. Now there’s a relatively new workplace trend on the rise known as ‘clock botching’.
This recently coined item of jargon refers to employees who appear to be clocked in, but are not meaningfully engaged in their work. This can be laziness, although it is often due to low morale, burnout, or workplace disillusionment.
While both behaviours can stem from a sense of obligation, the impact on individuals and businesses can be quietly damaging.
Guy Thornton, the founder of PracticeAptitudeTests.com, tells Digital Journal how these two trends compare, what causes them, and what employees and employers can do if they notice the signs.
What is ‘clock botching’ and how does it compare to presenteeism?
Thornton explains: “Clock botching is similar to presenteeism, but instead of forcing yourself into the office or logging on when you’re clearly unwell or burnt out, it’s what happens when you’re physically present but mentally checked out.
“It might mean stretching a two-hour task across an entire day, half-engaging on video calls, or generally drifting through the workday while running on empty.
“Presenteeism is often about overperforming despite poor health. Clock botching, on the other hand, is about underperforming due to emotional fatigue, disconnection, or a lack of purpose.”
Why are these trends taking hold?
As to the current trajectory, Thornton discerns: “Both behaviours are symptoms of a wider problem. Today’s work culture can reward visibility over output, and with hybrid and remote working now the norm, it’s easier than ever to appear present without fully engaging.
“With presenteeism, the pressure comes from within or from above, usually to keep up appearances, not fall behind, or avoid being seen as unreliable.
“With clock botching, there’s often a sense of low morale, frustration, or burnout. It’s not about laziness. It’s about employees feeling stuck or unsupported, leading to quiet withdrawal.”
What are the impacts?
Any repeated unwanted behaviour adversely impacts the ebb and flow of work. Here Thornton opines: “The risks are surprisingly similar. Both presenteeism and clock botching lead to reduced productivity, poorer outcomes, and a ripple effect across teams.
“Someone forcing themselves to push through when they’re unwell is likely to make mistakes, while someone disengaged may miss deadlines or quietly fall behind.
“In both cases, other team members may be left to pick up the slack, leading to resentment or a dip in morale. If this continues over time, it can cause long-term damage to company culture.
“For businesses, the cost is hidden but real. Disengaged or burnt-out teams don’t just underperform; they’re also more likely to leave.”
What to do if you recognise the signs?
For the good employer, how doe they know if these traits are becoming manifest in the workforce. Thornton thinks: “If you’ve ever forced yourself into work while feeling unwell or found yourself aimlessly clicking around your inbox while mentally elsewhere, you could be slipping into either presenteeism or clock botching, and they’re worth taking seriously.
“Experiencing either of these behaviours doesn’t mean you’re lazy or unreliable. More often than not, it’s the result of burnout, stress, or a lack of support. But the first step is recognising the signs and allowing yourself to step back.
“If you’re regularly feeling foggy, demotivated, or disconnected, that’s your signal to reassess. Taking time off when you need it is an act of self-preservation, not weakness.
“It can be as simple as taking a proper lunch break, finishing on time, or setting clear boundaries around work and rest. Talking to someone, using your leave, and resting when you are unwell are also really important.”
Why it’s important to acknowledge the problem
As to what employers could – should – be doing, Thornton recommends: “Resting when you’re ill or mentally drained will likely lead to a quicker recovery, allowing you to return to work refreshed and ready.
“Taking a sick day, being honest about how you’re feeling, or even just stepping back for an afternoon to reset can lead to better work, stronger performance, and more job satisfaction in the long run.”
