4 day work week - the new norm?

The 4 day work week has been a topic of debate and discussion for many years. The idea of working only 4 days a week, but having to work those 4 days consecutively, is one that has been proposed as a way to increase work productivity and create a better work-life balance. But is this really a new norm? And, if it is, what are the benefits and drawbacks for both employees and employers?

Background: 4 day work week - the history

The 4 day work week has been around for a long time – in fact, it was first proposed by Henry Ford in the early 20th century. Ford believed that workers were more productive when they had more time to spend with their families and that a shorter work week would lead to a reduction in production costs. However, the idea of the 4 day work week did not catch on until the 1970s, when it was championed by the New Zealand prime minister, Rob Muldoon. Muldoon believed that a 4 day work week would reduce unemployment and allow people to spend more time on leisure activities.

Since then, the idea of the 4 day work week has been studied and debated by many experts. In a 2006 study, the RAND Corporation found that a 4 day work week resulted in improved worker productivity and reduced stress levels. And, in a 2009 study, the University of Melbourne found that a 4 day work week led to a decrease in sick days and improved employee morale.

The notion of a four day workweek has been around for quite some time, but it seems to be gaining traction lately, with more and more people advocating for it. There are a number of potential benefits to switching to a four day workweek, including reducing stress, improving work-life balance, and improving productivity. But is a four day workweek really feasible? And, if it is, would it be right for your company? In this article, we'll take a closer look at the pros and cons of a four day workweek and help you decide whether it's right for your organization.

The Pros of a Four Day Workweek:

1. Reduced stress: One of the primary benefits of a four day workweek is that it can reduce stress. When people are stressed out, they tend to be less productive and may even experience health problems. A four day workweek can help to alleviate some of the stress that comes with working long hours.

2. Improved work-life balance: A four day workweek can also help to improve work-life balance. When people have more time to spend outside of work, they're less likely to feel overwhelmed or stressed out. This can lead to improved productivity and a more positive work environment.

3. Increased productivity: Some people argue that a four day workweek can actually lead to increased productivity. When people have more time to relax and rejuvenate outside of work, they may be able to bring more energy and focus to their job. Additionally, a shorter workweek can help to eliminate the dreaded Monday morning blues.

The Cons of a Four Day Workweek:

1. Increased costs: One potential downside of a four day workweek is that it can lead to increased costs for businesses. When people are working fewer days, the company may need to hire more employees to cover the same hours, which can be costly. Additionally, if people are taking longer days to complete the same amount of work, the company may need to invest in more equipment or tools to help them be more productive.

2. Reduced flexibility: Another potential downside of a four day workweek is that it can reduce flexibility. If people are working four days a week, they may not be able to work overtime or take on extra shifts if needed. This can be a challenge for businesses that are not able to operate with a reduced staff.

3. Negative public perception: Finally, a four day workweek can sometimes have a negative public perception. Some people may see it as a sign that the company is not doing well or that the employees are not valued. This can be a challenge for companies that are looking to attract new employees.

So, is a four day workweek right for your company? The answer to that question depends on a variety of factors, including the type of business, the number of employees, and the company's budget. However, if you're considering making the switch, it's important to weigh the pros and cons carefully and make a decision that's best for your organization.

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