Using music to boost productivity in the workplace
In honour of the office anthem, we would like to share a few ways you could use music to connect with your team and boost productivity in the workplace.
KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) has a handful of offices or waiting rooms without East Coast Radio playing.
The people of KZN want to know what's happening, and part of that means keeping up with the most incredible sounds while also staying in touch with their favourite personalities.
Naturally, having the radio on is a connection to music and a feeling that most people enjoy. The love of music has long been something that connects people. It's a common ground that allows people to socialise and engage.
So, of course, it can be a tool to help boost productivity in the workplace and also connect a teams.
Read more: Why do rules matter in the workplace?
Here are some ways you could use music to boost productivity in the workplace.
1. Allocate music time
While we love listening to music while working, it is not for everyone. So, allocate some time during the day for your team to have music playing in the office. You could set aside lunchtime and create a playlist of everyone's favourites or switch on the radio.
2. Use music when brainstorming
A fun way to implement music whilst brainstorming ideas is to use it intentionally.
Plan a brainstorming session with light music in the background, but be mindful about what you play. Use an acoustic version of the team's favourite and notice how it makes them feel more creative.
"In one study from the University of Illinois, researchers found that listening to music in all work settings increased work output by 6.3%.
According to Dr. Teresa Lesiuk, people who listen to music complete their tasks more quickly and come up with better ideas than those who don’t. “When you’re stressed, you might make a decision more hastily; you have a very narrow focus of attention. When you’re in a positive mood, you’re able to take in more options,” according to music therapist Jennifer Buchanan.
3. Let teams connect by creating playlists
A fun way to connect team members is to allow each one to create a playlist of their favourite songs and play it on one day. This teaches the other team members to understand their teammates more and allows them to deepen their connection.
"According to music psychologist Stefan Koelsch, music connects us by affecting brain areas involved in empathy, trust, and cooperation.
Another study said that music increases contact, coordination, and cooperation because we tend to feel more connected and uplifted toward others when we try to sync," said Buchanan.
So, while music may not remedy every work problem, it can surely help boost productivity and connectivity in the workplace.
HOW TO LISTEN TO EAST COAST RADIO
- Listen to East Coast Radio on the FM (frequency modulation) spectrum between 94 and 95 FM on your radio.
- Listen live to ECR by clicking here or download the ECR App (iOS/Android).
- Listen to East Coast Radio on the DStv audio bouquet, channel 836.
- Switch to the audio bouquet on your Openview decoder and browse to channel 606
- Listen to us on Amazon Alexa.
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