A trial indicates potential advantages for a four-day workweek, extending to employees beyond just laborers.
The recent trials of a four-day work week in the UK, US, and Germany have generated a significant amount of interest and discussion, with several potential benefits and criticisms emerging.
One of the most encouraging findings is the reported improvement in worker wellbeing. Trials have shown massive improvements in mental and physical health, reduced burnout, and more positive emotions among employees. This is largely due to the improved work-life balance and the extra free time employees gain without wage cuts.
Another significant advantage is the increase in productivity. Many companies have seen an increase or at least maintenance of productivity despite fewer hours worked. Some businesses describe the four-day week as cost-neutral or even positive because productivity gains offset the fewer hours.
In terms of talent retention and attraction, employers offering a shorter work week tend to retain staff better and attract skilled workers, helping address recruitment challenges in competitive labor markets.
The trials have also suggested that the four-day week can lead to more equitable household labor. Contrary to concerns that women might bear more unpaid housework on an extra day off, research suggests that men also increase childcare and housework, improving the division of unpaid labor at home.
Moreover, reduced commuting and office use can lower carbon footprints, contributing to sustainability goals.
However, not all business leaders are convinced. Some, like US venture capitalist Kevin O’Leary, dismiss the idea as impractical, arguing that the workweek concept is outdated and preferring project-based work instead.
Another concern is the potential for longer workdays. Some organizations aiming to keep total weekly hours near traditional levels may require 9-10 hour workdays, which can cause stress and reduce the benefit of an extra day off.
The success of such models appears tied to company commitment and willingness to rethink work organization rather than simply compressing existing workloads into fewer days. The trials indicate that the positive effects appear strongest when companies are truly committed to supporting the four-day model rather than just compressing hours without adjusting workload expectations.
In the UK, BrandPipe, a software company based in London, saw its revenue jump almost 130% during the trial. Four organizations registered fewer sick and personal days taken by employees during the trial, while two organizations recorded a higher number. After the trial period, all 17 entities decided to keep the shorter work week.
In the US and Canada, trials in 2022 and 2023 resulted in almost all companies continuing with the four-day work week policy. Alan Brunt, CEO of Bron Afon Community Housing in Wales, expects most organizations to adopt a four-day work week within the next 10 years.
However, critics argue that the success of the four-day work week trials may be due to the fact that the participating companies are motivated and enthusiastic about the concept. The 4 Day Week Foundation plans to address this by adding an element of randomized control in future trials.
The trials involved nearly 1,000 employees from a wide range of sectors, with eight charities, non-profits, non-governmental, and voluntary entities participating. Some opted for a four-day week, while five chose a nine-day fortnight.
In conclusion, while the four-day work week trials show promising results, there are still concerns about longer daily hours, uneven management buy-in, and skepticism from parts of the business community. The success of such models appears tied to company commitment and willingness to rethink work organization rather than simply compressing existing workloads into fewer days.
- The increased productivity associated with a four-day work week could potentially be beneficial for the finance sector, as many companies have seen an increase or at least maintenance of productivity without a decrease in wages, making it a cost-effective strategy for business growth.
- The four-day work week can also contribute to personal growth and self-development by providing employees with more free time for education and self-improvement, fostering productivity and better work-life balance.
- In terms of attracting skilled workers and fostering a more equitable household environment, a shorter work week model, such as a four-day work week, could have positive implications for the business and education-and-self-development sectors, as well as promoting personal growth and productivity, ultimately benefiting both employees and employers.
