I'm not sure this is really good advice. Networking with your co-workers, getting to know them, and letting them know you is so important, and thats what happen

I'm not sure this is really good advice. Networking with your co-workers, getting to know them, and letting them know you is so important, and thats what happens during those lunch time discussions. Also, in my experience, lunch discussions often actually do become very technical and work related. If you aren't there to participate, your opinion won't be taken into consideration. Finally, even if lunch time is your own time, if you are doing work on your side project using computers, software, even office space at work, your employer may be able to claim ownership of your project.