In a commentary, SMU Professor of Organisational Behaviour & Human Resources Michael Schaerer opined that while headphones help block distractions, they may also lead to negative perceptions. He noted that colleagues often rely on visible cues to judge engagement, especially when performance is not directly observable. Drawing on recent research conducted in collaboration between SMU, Bilkent University and the University of Florida, he highlighted that even listening to music at work can shape how colleagues perceive one’s engagement and approachability – often inaccurately. As workplaces become more open and collaborative, the need for focus remains, but is not always well understood.
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