Business View Magazine | September 2019

10 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2019 • Noisy Surroundings: Playing music that’s too loud is unacceptable to 74% surveyed; 57% believe that having smartphone ringers on for calls, notifications or alerts is annoying and 50% say that taking private calls in a shared workstation is objectionable. • Taboo Topics: Conversation topics like religion, politics, or sexuality should be off- limits at work say 59% of respondents. The survey showed 70% of American workers believe their co-workers should avoid displaying ‘not suitable for work’ photos. Too Close for Comfort? These annoying habits are causing some anxiety for workers. Nearly half said that they don’t feel comfortable and accepted in their workplace, and 25% avoid communal work spaces so their colleagues’ behaviors won’t affect them. One out of five (16%) say that they work remotely as much as possible to avoid their co-workers’ misconduct. Co-worker Coping Strategies According to the study, workers are finding ways to cope with challenging behaviors: • Younger workers (31%) are more likely than boomers (18%) to deal with colleagues’ behavior by reminding them of the rules. • Men are more likely than women to directly ask colleagues to change poor workplace behaviors (27% versus 17%). • Millennials are three times as likely (42%) as boomers (13%) to wear headphones or ear buds at work to reduce noise levels. • 28% surveyed seek out private areas to avoid dealing with bad behaviors. Workplace Refresh According to the study, making simple design changes to the office can also positively impact morale and behavior. 26% of respondents say that if their workplace was upgraded with fresh paint and some new furniture, attitudes would improve. “Considering the average person spends one- third of their life at work, it’s important to create an environment that both encourages positive interactions and provides privacy,” said Dean Stier, Chief Marketing Officer for NBF. One out of five (16%) say that they work remotely as much as possible to avoid their co-workers’ misconduct