A 4-day workweek has many benefits for employees and employers. Research shows it can lead to increased productivity, better mental health and improved work-life balance. Is the 4-day workweek worth a shot in your workplace? Some think the transition may only be a matter of time, echoing modern society’s adoption of the five-day workweek in the early decades of the 20 ^th century, which involved eliminating a sixth day of work. While there may be challenges to its implementation in the workplace, it’s clear that the concept has already been successful for some companies. With careful planning and consideration, the 4-day workweek could become a more widespread practice.

Have you ever fantasised about a 4-day workweek? Perhaps you’ve sat back at work on Friday afternoon and dreamt about the luxury of a three-day weekend. The 4-day workweek has been welcomed by some to increase work-life balance, reduce stress and increase productivity. Could the concept succeed in your workplace? While it’s easy to understand the effects of a shorter week on worker wellbeing, the positive effects on company earnings and productivity may be more of a surprise – but research backs this up.

One of the most significant benefits is increased work-life balance. Employees have more time to spend with their families and pursue hobbies and interests outside work. This leads to a better quality of life and improved mental health. A 4-day workweek also reduces stress and burnout, which are common problems in the modern workplace. With an extra day off, employees have more time to rest and recharge, which leads to better productivity and a happier workforce. Reduced stress and burnout also lead to better physical health, as chronic stress has been linked to a variety of health problems, including heart disease and depression.

In 2020, the Australian software company Atlassian introduced a 4-day workweek trial for its employees. The results were overwhelmingly positive, with employees reporting higher job satisfaction and a better work-life balance.

One of the most significant benefits for employers is increased productivity. Research shows that employees are more productive when they work fewer hours. This is because employees have more time to rest, relax and recharge, which makes them more productive when they are at work. Employers also benefit from reduced absenteeism and turnover rates , as employees are more satisfied and less likely to burn out. Another benefit of the 4-day workweek is increased employee retention. This is because employees value a good work-life balance and are more likely to stay with a company that offers it. A 4-day workweek also reduces stress and burnout, which leads to better mental health and a happier workforce. Happy employees are more engaged and committed to their work which benefits employers in the long run.

Research involving 61 UK organisations found a 20% reduction in working time with no loss of pay led to significant drops in workforce stress and sick days , an increase in worker retention and a much better work-life balance for most employees – all while ‘key business metrics’ were met, including full-time productivity targets. The research was conducted in a six-month period from June to December 2022. It is important to note that the UK trial was limited. There was no control group – a company or companies that maintained a five-day workweek, to compare against the 4-day workweek companies. “Selection bias” is another factor as a particular company may be far more likely to volunteer for a 4-day workweek trial.

While the 4-day workweek is gaining traction and has many benefits for a company’s workforce, it also comes with challenges and might not be the right fit for every industry or individual. Sceptics believe productivity would decrease eventually, while people who are expected to complete the same workload in less time could end up more stressed. Additionally, the 4-day workweek may not work for people who work in restaurants, retail, law enforcement or hospitals. For professions that operate almost continuously, a 4-day week would require managers to hire additional staff.

When you’re looking to hire the best candidates in Adelaide , it pays to have the best recruitment agency behind you. At Mansfield and Co Recruitment , we are passionate about matching people to the right roles to create that perfect ‘fit’. Our award-winning recruitment team will help you attract, acquire and retain talent and ensure your organisation stays ahead of the competition. Are you looking to hire? Go to our website to find out the roles we specialise in. You can also check out our Facebook page. To book an in-person coffee meeting with Mansfield and Co director Melanie Mansfield , click here. If you have a question for Melanie Mansfield and her team , phone 08 8463 1198 or email admin@mansfieldandco.com.au

References

https://www.businessinsider.com/why-four-day-workweek-helps-workers-employers-science-evidence-2023-2

The Benefits And Challenges Of A 4-Day Workweek

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