Music at Work: Does it Work?

How to relief stress? The question every employer wants answered.  There are various ways to relief stress.  A stress buster that has been studied for quite some time now is music.

One way to reduce stress at work is listening to music.  Resarchers at Australian Monash University have shown that those who work in silence have increased anxiety, blood pressure and heart rate compared to those who listen to relaxing music before prepping for a presentation.  

In the 19th century there is documentation of women being hired to sing among the workers to boost morale.  

Employees find it enjoyable when they are listening to music.

Music has shown to decrease boredom, and increase productivity, vigilance, and psychological arousal.  

Research done at the University of Windsor in 2005 found positive emotions and work quality of computer workers declined when they were not listening to music compared to those who were.  On the other hand, those who did not listen to music had increased concentration.  

Colette Robicheau, an organizing consultant and coach, states to play familiar music so it can boost productivity.  When unfamiliar music is played employees are trying to process the new song and deterring from the task at hand.  

Another tip for selecting music for the workplace is music that does not offend or distract others.  If there are generation gaps in the workplace, employees should not be encouraged to bring their own music.  For example, a younger gentleman who listens to rap music with profanity can cause disapproval from co-workers.  

The radio has its pro and cons.  The radio can be a source of neutral music.  However, it can also be a source of distraction.  Commercials and news can distract people when they come on and they can lose focus.  

Pennsylvanaia State University research shows that when people choose their own music there is more stress reduction.  Familiarity and memories with particular songs impact the way people work.  

Headphones are the best solution, people can listen to their own music without affecting others around them and at the same time create a positive work environment.  Employees won’t get distracted with what is going on around them.  

Employees have to be cautious that using headphones can result in others perceiving co-workers as rude or antisocial.   “According to Harvard University, 85% of the reason why we keep or advance in a job is based on interpersonal skills, and 15% on our technical skills. So, [if] you’re hired for a job, we assume you have the technical skills.... Once you’re there you can use these interpersonal skills to advance your executive presence.”

In order to combat this problem some organizations suggest employees have one earphone in and the other ear free so they can be aware of what is taking place around them.  

In the end, employers need to make sure they are meeting the needs of all staff members and clients. 

Posted by: suhujitha on 2010-04-05 20:40:49

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