Making the workplace sound better

Noise is a significant factor among the numerous stressors knowledge workers often face. Regardless of where they work, evading all noise can be challenging. Even with the flexibility to choose quieter environments, noise remains a top stressor, following closely behind workload and poor communication. Therefore, companies should prioritize addressing noise as a key concern.

We all have different tolerances for noise and varying needs regarding the sound levels in our work environment. However, our research reveals that only a small minority thrive in noisy settings. In fact, less than 10% of respondents say a loud environment is optimal for their work. Most knowledge workers report that noise negatively affects their productivity and concentration. By actively reducing noise, companies can create a more comfortable and efficient workspace, helping employees feel better and perform at their best.

Sometimes employees have to get creative to ensure they can work effectively. Surprisingly, 1 in 10 even confess to retreating to the bathroom to evade noise. However, most employees adopt strategies that are much easier for companies to address. These tactics highlight a clear need for workplaces to provide spaces or technology that offer a disturbance-free environment. By understanding and accommodating these needs, companies can significantly enhance their employees' productivity and well-being.

In today's fast-paced work environment, the quality of our auditory surroundings significantly impacts our mental health. Our research indicates that not only environmental noise, but also poor audio quality in calls and meetings are major stressors affecting mental wellbeing. Knowledge workers report that poor audio quality is particularly detrimental to their mental health at work. Meanwhile, employees experience a range of benefits from higher quality audio, suggesting that companies can see several benefits from recognizing the importance of audio quality.

To create a disturbance-free work environment, knowledge workers often seek specific spaces or technological solutions. They also advocate for these solutions to be officially adopted to successfully mitigate the disruptive effects of noise. The most popular strategies include offering workplace flexibility, equipping employees with high-quality audio technology, and designing office areas to accommodate varying noise levels. Companies embracing such initiatives stand to gain a competitive advantage, as they can create better work environments that enhance employee wellbeing and productivity, regardless of location.