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Do You Whistle While You Work?
We study the workforce frequently and on a wide variety of topics. One such study really struck a chord with me (no pun intended). Take our recent research on listening to music at work (which for the record, I think falls in the latter category). A large majority (79 percent!) of workers said listening to music during work actually improved their job satisfaction and
55 percent said it also improves productivity. Those are pretty large numbers if you ask me.
And don't just chalk these up to a few workers who will say anything to keep their headsets on from 9 to 5. The scientific community has been studying the impact of music on our brains for years. In fact, recent studies indicate that listening to and playing music actually alters how our brains, and thus our bodies, function. Scientists are using the power of music in a number of ways, from battling diseases to relieving pain and improving children's test scores.
So, the impact listening to music can have on job satisfaction and productivity doesn't seem so far fetched. I'm curious then why only 32 percent of workers said they listen to music at work. Let me know what you think. Is it because your employer doesn't allow it? Or that your corporate culture just doesn't encourage it? Do you find it distracting rather than a helpful aid in boosting productivity?
And lastly, if you do mix business with music, do you prefer rockin' out to the Black Eyed Peas or mellowing out to some good ole' Beethoven?
Posted by Tim Gorman on October 26, 2006 at 3:19 PM
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Comments
Tim,
I do like to listen to music when I am working--believe it or not it helps me focus. But I have to say, having been in corporate america most of my career, I often feel people think you are "goofing off" if you have music on.. Years ago, I used a walkman, and it did come up in one of my reviews-
Now, I do listen sometimes, but quickly turn it off if someone comes into the office.
Lisa.
Posted by Lisa M on October 28, 2006 8:42 PM
I've read several posts here before, but this one prompted me to respond. I work in an office where you can hear several different types of music from a number of offices, including mine. Listening to music helps me concentrate and I always make sure that it is low enough that it can only be heard in my office. However, I have co-workers who listen to music that is too loud, and we aren't talking Mozart. It's Top 40, which I believe to be a little unprofessional. I am not saying that it shouldn't be played, but employees should be mindful about the noise level as to not offend or distract co-workers. Justin Timberlake might not be the best background music during a professional conference call.
Posted by Sara K on October 30, 2006 2:16 PM
I completely agree that listening to music at work can get out of hand. While I sometimes listen to music, the volume level is pretty low and it is usually after regular hours.
Headphones are a nice option if you are in a busy environment and don't need to be on the phone all of the time -- but that seems rare.
I think it is important for companies or managers to establish some rules around listening music and then enforce them.
Otherwise, you may be on a call with a client who will wonder if you are in an office or at a club or concert...
Posted by Kip Havel on October 30, 2006 6:21 PM
Thanks for the post.
Great info.
Posted by selsnviu on September 29, 2007 8:38 PM
Hello,
Another great post?thank you for your continued contributions. I totally agree with your approach and conclusion.
Posted by VoIP on February 7, 2008 4:00 AM