Brits admit regular breaks boost productivity

Brits are making more efforts to break up their workday, with some noticeable changes to businesses. A study by ElectricTobacconist as part of the Take a Break Report 2017 revealed that half take short breaks from their work as often as every two hours, and 15% do so once per hour – but many in fact find that this has a direct impact on their work performance.

More than one in three believe that this time actually boosts their productivity and energy levels. Nearly a quarter have discovered some news or information during these kind of rests which has been beneficial for their work, however few bosses seem to be recognising these benefits, as just 14% of employers feel that workers taking regular short breaks is a positive thing.

It’s 25-34-year-olds who take the most frequent breaks with one in 10 doing so twice per hour, while the group following closely behind is those aged 18-24, with 21% of this group taking a breather once per hour. However, it’s not only the youngest workers leading this trend – more than one in three employees aged 55 – 64 years old admitted to taking a break from work every two hours.

“This trend for workers to take more frequent breaks from work can understandably sound a little concerning for business owners if this is not governed,” said Pascal Culverhouse, founder and CEO of ElectricTobacconist. “However this research clearly shows that – if employers make it clear when and for how long they are happy to authorise workers taking these kinds of breaks – it can actually have a positive impact on workers’ professional performance.”

“Mini breaks are a great way to rebalance, refocus and recharge so that concentration and energy levels don’t waiver,” continued Culverhouse. “Even just a couple of short breaks each day could make a huge difference to maximising workers’ outputs, and ensuring they are making the most of each day.”

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