So I'm in kind of a weird situation at work vis a vis music. I'm allowed to listen to music at my desk (cue Office Space quotes), but, for some odd reason, I am not allowed to use headphones. The manager of the call center (this is simplifying) doesn't want me to wear headphones because it would make me seem unapproachable (I've been told I am aloof at work) and he needs me to answer tough questions if people come to my desk.
So here's the situation: when at a reasonable (for my workplace) volume, speakers are just a little too quiet for my taste. Is there any way short of physical modification of my cubicle (not possible) to isolate the sound so that it is only audible while sitting at my desk? I'm not talking about complete silence, but very quiet. I'm also not talking about cranking the speakers... just having them at an enjoyable volume for myself.
Posted by BlackBlade (Member # 8376) on :
quote:Originally posted by Primal Curve: So I'm in kind of a weird situation at work vis a vis music. I'm allowed to listen to music at my desk (cue Office Space quotes), but, for some odd reason, I am not allowed to use headphones. The manager of the call center (this is simplifying) doesn't want me to wear headphones because it would make me seem unapproachable (I've been told I am aloof at work) and he needs me to answer tough questions if people come to my desk. So here's the situation: when at a reasonable (for my workplace) volume, speakers are just a little too quiet for my taste. Is there any way short of physical modification of my cubicle (not possible) to isolate the sound so that it is only audible while sitting at my desk? I'm not talking about complete silence, but very quiet. I'm also not talking about cranking the speakers... just having them at an enjoyable volume for myself.
TBH I'd go back to your boss and try to persuade him on the headphone point. Say you'd like to hear your music so it makes you productive but you don't wish to disturb others.
I can't think of any good way for you to get what you want in this regard, but I've yet to see your office so I can't really say what would or would not work.
Posted by ManlyMan (Member # 2167) on :
What about those plastic half sphere speakers that are directional? I have seen them at record stores and such and you can only hear the sound when you are underneath them...
Posted by Mucus (Member # 9735) on :
A pseudo compromise that I find myself using is to use only one of those small "bud"-style earphones and leave my "outside" ear available the hear for questions. Not the ideal solution in terms of sound quality but it seems ok.
Posted by Primal Curve (Member # 3587) on :
quote:Originally posted by ManlyMan: What about those plastic half sphere speakers that are directional? I have seen them at record stores and such and you can only hear the sound when you are underneath them...
Those can be pretty pricey, not to mention the look. I'm looking for a DIY solution.
Posted by Juxtapose (Member # 8837) on :
What if you combined headphones with a sign on your cubicle that said something like, "Ready and willing to answer questions. Tap me on the shoulder if I have headphones on."?
Posted by Primal Curve (Member # 3587) on :
The headphone suggestions are all very reasonable, and I'm sure would work had I reasonable management.
I can understand their perspective regarding my office "image," but they're not the type of people who like to change decisions they've already made.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
Might it help to loop small headphones around your neck, tucked inside your shirt? Nobody need know they are there, and perhaps it could amplify the ambient music you have running?
(*waving around wild straws)
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Mount speakers from your cubicle walls with a homemade rim to direct sound?
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Genetic modifications + time machine + accurate record of your conception = brilliant!
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