Survey Finds Listening to Music While at Work Can Lead to Better Production
A study from Accountemps shows workers who listen to music at work tend to be more productive, and happier while clocked in. The survey backs up older results indicating increased productivity at warehouses that play music. Recruiting manager with Robert Half Carrie Lewis says it’s something employers should look into.
"When it's used appropriately and its not distracting others, it can help reduce levels of anxiety and depression and it can maybe improve your memory and attention, by blocking out outside distractions," said Lewis.
But of course, not everyone is a fan of the same kinds of music. While Pop topped the list of the most recommended genres, there’s a lot of people who’d quit before sitting through top 40 for eight hours a day. Lewis says when it comes to music, to each their own.
"Use your headphones, if you work in a shared office space and it's allowed by your company's policy, definitely don't sing or hum along to your favorite tunes, you don't want to have the music blaring when you are trying to communicate with your co-workers."
But Lewis says not all workplaces are good spots for music, and it has the potential to get out of hand.
"When it starts to disrupt others or it makes the employees appear unapproachable, that's where it turns south, so you got to be respectful of your colleagues," said Lewis.