How American Politicians Pose to Look Extremely Busy (14 Photos)

Looking exceptionally busy and important is an essential skill—and not just for slackers. An Imgur user going by TheGhostofElizabethShue put together a hilarious set of rules on how to pose for photos to look hard at work, using shots of US presidents as examples. While written tongue-in-cheek, a few of these tips are actually worth keeping in mind. And not just for photo ops, but for everyday office life—so you know what to do if your boss catches you with a stern glance.







"Pick up the phone. Important people talk on the phone all the time. You just need to look like you're having a serious conversation with someone."





"Oh God, just don't stare at the camera like it owes you money."



"Stand up and lean on your desk—it's a classic power pose. You're working hard, and you're in charge. Awesome!"



"Damn it, stop staring at the camera."



You can combine all these tricks, but the key is not to overdo it.

"Okay, okay, hands on the desk, looking away from the camera, talking on the phone... a bit awkward, but fine."



"Nice try, buddy." (Pictured: Donald Trump Jr.)



"Look relaxed. Working hard doesn't mean you can't make it look effortless."



"Whoa, now that's way too relaxed—get your foot off the desk, you're not a teenager. Having a friend there, though, is great. Work implies meetings."



"Except you need a real friend, or people might think you don't have any."



"Do you know what a friend is? Someone you haven't insulted."



Don't overdo the relaxed vibe!



"Are you kidding me? Have you ever seen anyone actually read like that?"



"Are you tweeting? God damn it, I give up."