Citation
(2004), "Do working lunches work?", International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, Vol. 53 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/ijppm.2004.07953bab.005
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2004, Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Do working lunches work?
Working lunches seem to be an excellent means of combining the need to work and the need to eat. However, according to some recent research from UK automobile manufacturer, Vauxhall, they are not necessarily an effective way of lining up deals or generating innovative ideas.
The company conducted its research into innovation in the IT industry and found that the afternoon is the worst time for feeling creative (according to 62 per cent of respondents), with creativity negatively affected by a business lunch.
Breakfast meetings seemed more appropriate since 73 per cent of respondents suggested that the morning was the best time for innovation or creativity.
Peace and quiet seem to be important ingredients of a supportive environment, with 60 per cent of respondents saying that total silence was the best way to get the creative thoughts flowing, while 65 per cent cited a walk in the park or countryside and 78 per cent preferred being alone. Brainstorming –as a technique – still figures highly, tying with being alone on 78 per cent.