According to research of more than 1,000 businesses by music licensing organisations PPL and PRS for Music, one in five (22 per cent) would go out of their way to avoid silence in the office.

Two thirds (65 per cent) say music in the workplace makes their employees more productive, with a further 40 per cent believing that playing music can increase sales or results for the business.

Christine Geissmar, director of Operations at PPL says, ‘We know that playing music has huge benefits and we are keen for as many business owners as possible to understand how cost effective and beneficial playing music can be. We are encouraging businesses to contact us to find out more about how they can enjoy the benefits of music while being legally compliant.’

The research also finds that 75 per cent of SMEs believe that background music can help to relieve tension and awkward silences in the workplace. Psychologist Vicky Williamson says that music positively influences consumer mood and emotional states.

She adds, ‘Music also provides an effective and adaptable tool for bringing a sense of pleasure and relaxation to the work environment, thereby promoting a positive attitude, higher job satisfaction and boosting a sense of brand identity and loyalty.

‘A completely silent work environment can lack stimulation, interest and, for many people, a dynamic and creative source of energy.’

See also: Music or No Music: What works best for an office environment?