Denmark-based Jabra, a leader in professional audio and hybrid work solutions, has announced new research revealing the role that audio plays on cognitive, emotional and physical wellbeing in the workplace. Nearly three quarters (71%) of respondents say loud environments make them mentally tired. And six in 10 say loud environments make them physically tired (60%) and it is difficult to feel passionate about their work in such an environment (59%).
The research was carried out among 2,000 knowledge workers across France, Germany, the UK and the US. The findings reveal that while organisations are continuing to push for employees to return to offices, half (50%) of respondents say they are stressed by noise at the office not allowing them to focus. Another important finding in Jabra’s research was that 47% say it is difficult to be productive at work when colleagues are taking calls at their desks without headphones.
Meanwhile, 49% report it is equally difficult to lead or participate in calls when colleagues are taking calls from their desks without headphones. To avoid noise and limit distractions, over half of workers (53%) say they are expected to take calls, or online meetings, away from their desks in a separate room and use professional headphones (66%).
Meanwhile, 58% say poor quality audio during conference calls negatively impacts their wellbeing. Workers also believe higher-quality meeting audio can positively impact their interpersonal skills in the workplace through clearer communication (46%), improved collaboration (44%), and enhanced communication skills (39%).
What’s more, workers believe employers have a responsibility to address audio issues in a variety of ways. This ranges from providing noise-cancelling headphones as part of standard office equipment (36%) and allowing employees to work from home more frequently (39%). Over a third (34%) say their employer could also designate specific areas for different types of activities such as quiet zones, or collaborative zones.
The study also looks at neurodiversity, which refers to the diverse number of ways a human brain processes information. Despite being a relatively new concept to UK workers, with 21% saying it was the first time they were hearing about the term “neurodiversity”, around seven in 10 believe that neurodiversity in the workplace can improve business through increased creativity (72%) and collaboration (74%) – ultimately driving better business results (71%).
Improving neurodiversity in the workplace can be a way to boost work performance (61%), and employees are more empowered to “bring their whole self to work” in an inclusive workplace (60%). With a positive impact on both business and employees, nearly two thirds (64%) of workers agree that employers should invest more in creating an inclusive, neurodiverse workplace.
Nigel Dunn, VP EMEA north at Jabra, said: “The way of work is constantly evolving, and with the return to the office, UK workers are struggling with the ability to focus in the workplace. Sound type, intensity and individual sensitivity play significant roles in how we function at work and have a huge impact on mental health and wellbeing, and productivity and performance.”
He added: “GN’s recent ‘Listen to This’ campaign highlights the strong link between audio and our overall cognitive and mental wellbeing. UK leaders need to invest in creating an inclusive and neurodiverse workplace, combined with high-quality technology to ensure workers can bring their true and best selves to work and thrive professionally and mentally.”
The survey was carried out by market research company TEAM LEWIS Research amongst 2,000 knowledge workers (500 per country), aged between 18 and 65 across the US, UK, Germany and France between 27 March to 5 April 2024.
