Desk workers of Lemmy, what are your tips for appearing busy in the office even when you might not be?

Make jokes about not being busy. Make them boldly in slightly non appropriate circles. Then lean with the same amount of conviction into compliments. Agree with full heart, be non apologetic with the same force used to joke about how little work you have.

This duality is powerful because on the one hand you clearly have nothing to hide, and on the other hand you're painfully truthful. Works a charm. Then go have brunch on the clock.