Some workers today believe that taking a tea break is frowned upon by senior management- giving the impression of work avoidance, according to Tetley. Only a third take tea breaks, with many feeling they don't have the time to give themselves ten minutes from their busy day to leave their desk.
Do you take some time out for tea at work?
Psychologist Honey Langcaster-James commented: "Fewer tea breaks reflect the increasing pressure people feel they are under at work. Whereas 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.
"The social aspect of the workplace tea break serves to strengthen bonds between co-workers and increase feelings of well-being.
"British businesses need to take heed because this reduction in tea breaks could lead to a decline in harmonious workplace relations, employee satisfaction and an increase in stress related absenteeism and turnover."
"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. This study shows that 44% of workers feel re-energised after a tea break, and 33% feel more productive.
It may sound like the most trivial part of your working day- making tea for yourself or for others, however Honey Langcaster-James has come forward to tell us how this simple act can help us to nourish our relationships with our colleagues in the workplace.
"Tea Breaks in the workplace are a great opportunity to develop and nurture healthy relationships among colleagues. When everyone is included in the tea round it can foster a convivial, sociable and inclusive atmosphere. Developing a culture of an all staff afternoon tea break for example, can sure that everyone feels part of the team and reduces cliques or factions developing."
My top tips for building work place relations through tea breaks:
- Introduce a regular all-staff office tea break time, every afternoon at a set time is best, or for busier offices, every Friday afternoon perhaps.
- Ensure there's a chart outlining how everyone likes their tea to highlight how everyone is noticed and a valued member of the social side of work.
- Ensure that the role of Tea Maker is rotated and it doesn't always become one person's job to put the kettle on.
- Management and senior staff take part in the office tea break to foster positive social relations with subordinates.
- No office talk during tea breaks! This is a chance to get to know your colleagues personally as people.
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