The method involves shifting a position of an operating plateau with respect to a rotational speed of an electric motor (6) by setting a desired rotational speed range of a work apparatus (50) i.e. chain saw (20), and by setting a desired operating rotational speed, where the operating plateau is located in an operating rotational speed range. The operating rotational speed range and the operating rotational speed are preselected such that a power characteristic line is scaled to the preselected operating rotational speed range and the preselected operating rotational speed. An independent claim is also included for a work apparatus.