NEW RESEARCH has shown that two thirds of workers don’t take tea breaks because they’re too busy (44%), they aren’t allowed (25%) or they fear their boss will think they’re slacking (20%).
Commissioned by Tetley, the research found that only a third of office workers take a proper tea break away from their desk.
The study has potential implications for office worker wellbeing and productivity – the study found that 44% of workers feel re-energised after a tea break, and 33% feel more productive.
Psychologist Honey Langcaster-James commented: ‘In the past taking a tea break was seen as a valuable social activity in the office, it is now beginning to be seen as an unnecessary indulgence and waste of productive work time.
‘Yet research has indicated time and time again that striking a balance by taking short breaks during the working day increases people’s productivity and creativity… The social aspect of the workplace tea break also serves to strengthen bonds between co-workers and increase feelings of well-being.’
The research also revealed office tea round etiquette: one in four workers try to dodge tea rounds. Meanwhile, four in ten British bosses never make a tea round for their staff. 30% of men and 20% of women admitted to secretly making themselves a drink to avoid having to make a round for their colleagues. 12% admitted to deliberating avoiding making their colleagues a drink by offering to make a round just after everyone else has had one.