The latest research from The Global Payroll Alliance (GPA), reveals that around a third of UK workers are more likely to skive off work when the sun is shining.
The GPA commissioned a survey of 1,000 UK workers* and found that 34% admit that it’s likely they will take an extended lunch break when the sun is shining.
Taking things one step further, 31% said they are likely to clock off early on sunny days, and one in 10 even admitted that they are likely to pull a sickie in order to secure a full day of fun in the sun.
There is, at least, some good news for employers, with those surveyed stating that when they are at work, productivity remains the same regardless of the weather.
In fact, while 5% of UK workers say their productivity slumps when the sun is out, 19% believe it actually improves. However, for the cast majority (76%), there is no discernable change.
Melanie Pizzey, CEO and Founder of the Global Payroll Alliance, says:
“Heading into work on a sunny day can be a bitter pill to swallow, especially when the British weather can be so inconsistent and unpredictable.
On one hand, the sun can boost our mood and make for a far more enjoyable commute to work. On the other, who wants to be stuck at work all day when the weather is glorious?
While a large number of people admit to being more tempted to take long lunches or finish early on sunny days, it doesn’t necessarily mean they’re not getting their work done. If anything, they’re probably knuckling down more than usual to get through their workload in order to earn themselves a few more extra hours in the sun.
And besides, hot days are few and far between here in the UK, so perhaps we can allow ourselves a little freedom to enjoy them when the sun does grace us with its presence?”
Survey results
