More and more businesses are facing tough times in the face of the recession and morale in many companies is running low. It is in these tough times that many businesses are turning to music to help them beat the economic blues.

Music has long been recognised as having an effect on people's moods and many businesses now recognise that playing the right kind of music can enhance the environment they provide for customers and employees and create the right atmosphere to boost morale.

According to new research by MusicWorks which surveyed 2000 people working across various industries, 71% of employees would like listen to music when at work. Of those, 74% claim they would enjoy going to work more when music they like is being played.

If you haven't tried music you could consider adding it to help achieve the desired atmosphere in your business. Getting the right music is essential of course and tailoring it to suit your business is important. Why not ask your staff what they'd like to hear whilst they work?

Some businesses offer music in certain parts of the workplace- for example music in the reception area is a great way to provide an instant impression for people visiting your premises and can keep them entertained while they wait. Similarly canteens, open-plan offices, warehouses and production lines can all benefit with the addition of background music.

74% claim they would enjoy going to work more when music they like is being played

Some organisations within the creative sector have also set aside dedicated ‘thinking' areas with stimulating music to get the creative juices flowing - perhaps a bit of background whale music, or pan pipes could help you come up with the next ‘big idea'!

The MusicWorks research also revealed:

  • 85% say listening to good music at work makes them much happier.
  • 85% say that the working environment is much more relaxed when good music is being played.
  • 55% say they are less self-conscious about talking to other employees or customers/clients when music is played.
  • 78% say that the working environment is much less formal when good music is being played.
Playing music does come with a small up-front investment, as all UK establishments using music require a licence from PRS for Music.

PRS for Music a not for profit organisation that collects the license fee on behalf of song writers, composers and publishers. It is a legal requirement for any establishment, if music is being played or used in public, to have a licence and the cost of a licence varies depending on the type and size of the premises and the nature and extent to which the music is used.

But this can be balanced out nicely by the business benefits that music delivers, which is welcome news for many businesses that are looking for that edge. You're also safe in the knowledge that your licence fee goes back to the people who created and performed the music.

For more information visit www.prsformusic.com