Workaholic Brits taking work calls while being waxed

Put that phone down...

NEWS

Workaholic Brits are taking work calls and sending emails in places they really shouldn't, according to a new survey - including at the waxing parlour.

Almost a third of workers apparently believe it's essential for them to be contactable by their employer at all times. The 'always on duty' mentality affects 31 per cent of the 1,000 UK workers quizzed - and has led to business being conducted in some very unprofessional environments, the survey found.

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More than a fifth (23 per cent) of respondents said they have answered calls or sent emails while propping up the bar down the pub, a quarter of respondents have worked while on public transport and 13 per cent have sent emails or made calls from the doctor's surgery when they should probably have been worrying about other things.

The survey, conducted by 3 Business, also reveals a bizarre minority of workers who seem completely unable to turn off.

Seven per cent of respondents said they have taken time out in the middle of a date to take a work call - perhaps in the vain hope it makes them look important - and a mind-boggling four per cent said they have even sent emails or spoken to a work colleague while having a waxing or tanning session. Presumably not a video call, however.

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  1. 1. Simon

    And how many do it in the loo ? We have to know !

    I recall being at a trade show, and while visiting the gents observed someone wank in while talking on his mobile, go into a cubicle, make a splashing noise (brings to mind Lesley Nielsens radio mike gas in one of the Naked Gun films), and walk out - all during the call (and without washing of hands either, tut tut).

    I gather that the first captain of a naval ship can make requests for custom features - I assume limited in scope ! I gather one asked for an internal intercom in his private head (head is a military term for toilet) - ability to give s**t at both ends simultaneously perhaps ?

    • 1 September 2008 12:30
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  2. 2. anonymous

    Bar waxing and tanning I have "accidentally" called most of my project managers in practically all of those places. I must admit the loo call was rather humorous. "NnnnnaAAARGH I .. can't ....NnnnnARGH talk right now .... I'm ......a..bit..busy....NnnnnAAAARGH that's better!" Of-course I have apologised in each case which actually makes them feel worse.

    • 2 September 2008 08:27
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