Assessing the Impact of ‘Working Loudly’ in Modern Offices

The debate surrounding workplace visibility has intensified, with many employees grappling with the concept of “working loudly.” This trend, characterized by openly discussing achievements and sharing progress, raises questions about its implications in professional settings. As organizations increasingly shift towards remote work and hybrid models, understanding the balance between visibility and vanity is crucial.

Kelvin Kao, co-owner of a creative agency, reflects on his own experiences from his time in the National Service. He recounts an incident where a fellow soldier, Zann, exemplified a behaviour common in many workplaces today — that of performative effort. Zann’s tendency to appear busy while avoiding actual work highlights a broader issue: the fine line between effective self-promotion and mere theatrics in professional environments.

Visibility Versus Vanity in the Workplace

In contemporary corporate culture, it is not sufficient to simply produce results; employees must also ensure their efforts are visible to their peers and superiors. This phenomenon has resulted in the rise of “working loudly,” where individuals actively share their progress and celebrate minor victories. While this can foster a sense of collaboration and recognition, it also risks devolving into performative work, commonly referred to as “wayang” in Singapore.

Kao observes that while some employees thrive in this environment, others may struggle. Quiet performers often deliver quality work without fanfare, but their contributions can go unnoticed. Conversely, those who communicate every small task may inadvertently contribute to workplace burnout and skepticism among colleagues. The challenge lies in finding a balance; being visible should not come at the expense of genuine productivity.

The need for visibility becomes even more pressing in hybrid workplaces, where asynchronous collaboration is the norm. Employees may feel disconnected if their contributions are not actively communicated, making transparency essential for team cohesion. Nevertheless, the motivation behind sharing updates can sometimes feel forced or inauthentic, leading to discomfort among colleagues who value modesty.

The Cultural Context of ‘Working Loudly’

In Singapore, cultural norms often dictate a preference for humility over self-promotion. Many view public displays of achievement as boastful, which can create tension in workplaces where visibility is increasingly necessary. Kao notes that those who engage in “working loudly” often build stronger connections with their teams through regular updates and shared successes.

Yet, the risk of conflating performance with actual progress remains. Kao recounts instances where employees mistook lengthy updates for meaningful contributions, often focusing on trivial roadblocks rather than actionable solutions. This misalignment can lead to a cycle of communication that feels more like busywork than productive engagement.

Effective communication should serve a purpose. Rather than simply showcasing personal achievements, updates should convey information beneficial to the entire team. Framing communications around collective goals can help foster a more collaborative atmosphere. For managers, recognizing that not all employees express their value in the same way is critical. Silence does not equate to disengagement, and leaders should actively create opportunities for all team members to share their contributions.

At the core of this discussion is a fundamental truth: The performative aspects of workplace visibility must align with genuine effort. As Kao concludes, the “Zanns” of the world will eventually be revealed, as true productivity cannot be masked by mere talk. Moving forward, organizations must cultivate an environment where employees feel empowered to share their successes while remaining grounded in their contributions.

In conclusion, the concept of “working loudly” can be a double-edged sword. When approached thoughtfully, it can enhance team dynamics and recognition. However, if it devolves into performative work, it risks undermining actual productivity. Balancing visibility with authenticity will be key for professionals navigating the evolving landscape of modern work.