How noise is preventing a return to offices
The issue of excessive noise in workplace environments is nothing new. For decades, office workers in open-plan settings have battled against a cacophony of phone calls, escalating ambient noise, and unchecked disturbances from nearby colleagues. Whereas before, staff may have soldiered on and done their best to ignore it, the post-pandemic workforce is struggling to adjust – and this is having a huge impact on business productivity.
From our research, we know this to be true. A recent study of hybrid workers in the financial sector revealed that disproportionate noise is causing havoc amongst teams – eight in ten said it negatively affects their job performance. Many also believe they do their best work at home – three quarters said that they work more effectively when they’re not in the office. Importantly, a third say it’s led to poor productivity. These are worrying statistics considering the UK’s trend for weak, long-term growth.
The issue of noise is particularly pertinent as we begin a new year. Companies are pushing back on WFH to drive productivity and 2024 is likely to see more of the same. The wheels are already in motion. Back in October, Forbes reported more people are now in the office, than work from home ‘for the first time since the start of COVID-19. Yet, with the downsizing of offices and rise in returning workers, it’s a ticking-time bomb for poor productivity – and acoustics are at the heart of the matter.
So, what’s to be done and how can businesses tackle the burden of noise? One solution is to pay proper attention to acoustic management and invest in solutions that reduce the spread of sound. Whilst noise-cancelling headphones go some way, they often disturb the easy flow of communication between teams.
Instead, businesses are using quality acoustic sprays. Discreet and quick to install, they ‘soak up’ sound energy so it absorbs rather than reflects. Offices are normally ‘chock-a-block’ with hard surfaces, such as desks and chairs that cause intense noise reverberation and echo. This enables noise levels to climb quickly. However, quality acoustic sprays have the ability to dampen sound, making it much more comfortable for staff.
They’re also a vital tool in modern office design, catering to both collaborative work and quiet, focused time. Quality acoustic sprays stop workspaces from becoming ‘sonic battlegrounds’ so that both can be achieved with ease. This allows teams to ‘gel’ creatively whilst minimising the disturbance to others. It also means that individuals can recreate the solace of home working when needed.
It’s also vital to consider acoustics given the growing focus on employee welfare and wellbeing. Wellbeing company Zest reported that around eight in ten UK employers have seen requests for more wellbeing benefits in the workplace. Given the impact poor acoustics can have on mental clarity, focus, and stress levels, it mustn’t be overlooked.
Dr. Nina Kraus, Professor of Neurobiology and Communication Sciences, expands on this at length in her book ‘Of Sound Mind’. She notes that we ‘constantly undervalue our sense of hearing’ and discusses how unwanted noise and sounds ‘can harm not only our ears but also our brain’. Investing in solutions that ‘dial down’ the noise is a responsibility employers should take seriously.
From a productivity standpoint, there’s also evidence to suggest that providing a healthier, happier workspace can also deliver financial incentives to staff. A 2023 KPMG Outlook report found that nearly nine in ten CEOs will likely reward employees who come into the office, with pay rises, promotions and favourable assignments. For businesses looking to get the most from their staff, ensuring workspaces are fit for purpose could deliver a much-needed boost to productivity levels.
Judging by our own research findings, it’s clear that there’s some way to go before businesses realise the potential acoustics can have on workplace output. Our study of workers in the financial sector showed that half had trouble concentrating due to noise, and over a third had delivered poor quality work as a result. At a time of tough economic conditions, when businesses are doing all they can to raise the bar and increase profits, improved workplace acoustics could be just the trick they’re missing.
