The role that audio plays in the cognitive, emotional and physical wellbeing of employees in the workplace cannot be understated.
That’s according to Jabra’s latest research, which found that almost three quarters (71 per cent) of UK respondents say working in a loud environment makes them mentally tired, and that clear and high-quality sound enhances their ability to focus on tasks.
The survey of 2,000 knowledge workers across the U.K, France, Germany and the U.S. also revealed that improving neurodiversity in the workplace and creating an inclusive space can positively influence mental wellbeing and productivity, encouraging better mood and giving organisations a competitive advantage.
While organisations are continuing to push for employees to return to offices, half (50 per cent) of UK respondents say that they are stressed by noise at the office not allowing them to focus.
Jabra's research found that 47 per cent say it was difficult for them to be productive at work when colleagues were taking calls at their desks without headphones. Meanwhile, 49 per cent reported it was equally difficult to lead or participate in calls when colleagues are taking calls from their desks without headphones. To avoid noise and limit distractions, more than half of UK workers (53 per cent) say that they are expected to take calls or online meetings away from their desks in a separate room and use professional headphones (66 per cent).
The findings show the impact noise has on overall productivity and performance. With 72 per cent saying clear and high-quality sound enhances their ability to focus on tasks and projects, it is critical that leaders do all they can to provide the right technology and a conducive environment for employees returning to the office, to avoid the productivity buzzkill.
Poor audio quality has negative consequences on work and wellbeing, with 58 per cent of UK workers saying poor quality audio during conference calls negatively impacts their wellbeing.
The impact loud environments have on mental health and wellbeing is clear: almost three quarters (71 per cent) say that working in a loud environment makes them mentally tired. Furthermore, six in 10 respondents agree that working in a loud environment makes them physically tired (60 per cent) and it is difficult for them to feel passionate about their work when working in such an environment (59 per cent).
Workers also believe that higher-quality meeting audio can positively impact their interpersonal skills in the workplace through clearer communication (46 per cent), improved collaboration (44 per cent) and enhanced communication skills (39 per cent).
While noise has a negative impact on overall mental health and wellbeing, workers believe that 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 per cent) and allowing employees to work from home more frequently (39 per cent). More than one third (34 per cent) say that their employer could also designate specific areas for different types of activities such as quiet zones or collaborative zones to ensure employees have the options available in the offices for optimal performance and mental wellbeing.
Despite being a relatively new concept to UK workers, with 21 per cent saying it was the first time they were hearing about the term "neurodiversity", around seven in 10 believed that neurodiversity in the workplace can improve business through increased creativity (72 per cent) and collaboration (74 per cent) - thus driving better business results (71 per cent).
Improving neurodiversity in the workplace can be a way to boost work performance (61 per cent) and employees are more empowered to "bring their whole self to work" in an inclusive workplace (60 per cent). With a positive impact on both business and employees, nearly two thirds (64 per cent) of UK 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. 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."