[0xmohit]

  "showing up" (via various communication channels) have more
  value at one of the places I worked than the actual work

Reminds me of a Dilbert strip:

  When you don't have anything to do, walk fast and look worried.
  Carry a notebook, it helps.

I even heard a coworker say: "It doesn't matter whether the work gets done as long as you are worried about your work."

[thingamarobert]

A useful tip even for a hard-worker when times are bad.