October 2, 2023
Workplace productivity thrives in environments that are efficient, communicative, and engaging. Yet one crucial aspect of employee well-being often goes unnoticed: hearing health. Many employees may not realise they have hearing difficulties until a hearing check or test confirms it, and without early intervention from a professional audiologist, these challenges can gradually impact performance. From open offices to virtual meetings and client interactions, today’s workplaces rely heavily on verbal communication. For employees with hearing difficulties, these settings can present constant barriers, preventing them from performing at their best.
A 2021 report by the World Health Organisation estimates that unaddressed hearing loss costs the global economy nearly US$980 billion annually, largely due to lost productivity. While hearing difficulties are often associated with aging, studies show that one in six Australians experience some degree of hearing loss—many of whom are active in the workforce. The impact extends beyond the individual; when employees struggle to hear or communicate effectively, workplace engagement, efficiency, and collaboration suffer.
For businesses committed to fostering an inclusive and high-performing workplace, supporting employees’ hearing health is more than a medical concern—it’s an investment in their well-being and the organisation’s bottom line.
Hearing loss often develops gradually, with early signs that can be easy to overlook. Struggling to catch details in meetings, frequently mishearing instructions, or needing to increase call volumes are common early indicators. Over time, these small frustrations can escalate into disengagement, communication breakdowns, and reduced productivity.
The effects extend beyond those directly affected. Missed conversations, misunderstandings, and reduced participation can create inefficiencies across teams, delaying workflows and lowering overall morale. Employees with hearing loss may begin avoiding discussions or withdrawing from collaborative situations, limiting both their contributions and career progression.
A survey by the Hearing Care Industry Association found that 35% of employees with hearing loss struggle to perform their jobs effectively, while 19% believe their condition has held back their careers. This challenge is particularly significant in leadership and client-facing roles, where clear communication is essential.
Hearing health is not just about personal well-being—it is fundamental to workplace communication, collaboration, and professional growth.
The shift toward open-plan offices and hybrid work models has introduced new obstacles for employees with hearing impairments. Background noise—from office chatter and machinery to ambient meeting-room sounds—can make it difficult to focus and process conversations, even for those with mild hearing loss.
A 2022 study by the University of California, Berkeley, found that workers in noisy environments experienced a 66% drop in productivity compared to those in quieter spaces. The cognitive effort required to filter out distractions leads to mental fatigue, reduced concentration, and increased stress.
Additionally, extended headphone use for virtual meetings and remote collaboration presents another challenge. “Many professionals rely on noise-cancelling headphones to block distractions, but prolonged exposure to high volumes can contribute to long-term hearing issues,” explains Rosanna Chor, Principal Audiologist at Trusted Hearing, a hearing clinic in Melbourne, Australia. This concern is particularly relevant for remote employees who frequently use headphones for calls, training sessions, and webinars.
As workplace environments continue evolving, businesses must consider both noise management and hearing health to ensure employees can communicate effectively and perform at their best.
The financial impact of untreated hearing loss extends beyond individual productivity. Companies that fail to address communication barriers may experience higher turnover rates, lower employee satisfaction, and less cohesive teams.
Encouraging employees to schedule a hearing test and integrating audiology services into workplace wellness programmes can help detect and address hearing issues early, preventing long-term challenges. Such initiatives support not only employees with existing hearing concerns but also those at risk, ensuring early intervention and prevention.
“Inclusive workplaces recognise and accommodate diverse needs,” says Rosanna Chor. “By prioritising hearing health, companies create equal opportunities for all employees to excel.”
As businesses continue to explore ways to enhance workplace engagement and well-being, hearing care must be part of the conversation. A workplace where employees can communicate effectively, focus without strain, and participate fully is one that thrives.