What does "work to rule" mean in a workplace context?

In a workplace context, "work to rule" refers to a situation where employees strictly adhere to the terms of their job descriptions and follow company rules and regulations to the letter, essentially doing the minimum required within their defined roles. This approach is often used as a form of protest or discontent, where employees aim to highlight the impact of additional unpaid work or to express dissatisfaction with working conditions without outright striking.

By sticking strictly to their job descriptions, employees may limit their engagement in any tasks that go beyond their defined responsibilities, thereby drawing attention to the issues they face. This can lead to a slowdown in productivity, as additional responsibilities often help businesses function smoothly but are not mandated by the job description.

The other options suggest varying forms of protest or behavior that do not accurately capture the essence of "work to rule." For instance, outright refusal to perform mandatory tasks signifies a more aggressive stance than simply following established guidelines, while extended breaks indicate a more disruptive form of protest. Engaging in regular discussions could lead to more collaboration rather than emphasizing strict adherence to job roles. Therefore, the key aspect of "work to rule" is its focus on compliance with duties as defined, without indulging in additional work that might be expected informally.