Tech a break

Research suggests tech workers enjoy long lunches and creative expense claims. Dave investigates

I was massively shocked to read research this week that suggested employees
in the tech industry are work-shy, freeloading alcohol enthusiasts.

Some 29 per cent of tech heads always take a full lunch break, compared to less than nine per cent of diligent R&D types. The research, from serviced office provider Business Environment, also found that less than five per cent of techies routinely work through the weekend. This is compared to one in three retail and wholesale workers and 27.5 per cent of staff in the mile-a-minute world of travel and leisure.

Just 7.21 per cent of internet workers - and an eye-watering zero per cent of computer and software workers - indicated they never claim back expenses. Sixty-two per cent of tech bods never claim for team drinks. Which must mean 38 per cent think their firm should pay for post-work lagerthons.

Business Environment marketing manager Steve Moore drew some interesting conclusions.

"We've noticed that more clients are taking advantage of the free fruit baskets at our centres," he mused.

I think I operate a firm but fair policy on expenses. I mean, if they're buying stationery and computers anyway...