In the past month, news outlets including USA Today, The Washington Post + CNN have featured articles that examine the idea of a four-day workweek.
Even if you love your work, an extra day off might sound appealing. So, what’s all the talk about, exactly? Let us summarize for ya. 👇
Fast Facts
- The four-day workweek concept is slowly catching on in the United States, but niche industries in Europe have advocated for it for much of the past decade.
- Companies are accomplishing the four-day workweek with varying game plans. Some simply shorten it to 32 hours, while others ask employees to work 10-hour days.
- Offering a four-day workweek, which advocates say allows for more freedom, flexibility + balance, may help employers attract talent.
- Some critics warn that cramming five days of work into four creates more stress, and longer days could mean more risk of injury
Who’s tried it + how did it work?
- A Seattle-based design + marketing CEO had employees work four 10-hour days, which resulted in increased energy, efficiency and a 25% boost in productivity.
- A Belgian nonprofit director cut the workweek to 30 hours, allowing Fridays off + employees reported that the change allowed them to pursue hobbies or spend more time with family.
- A New Zealand estate management firm reduced the workweek to 32 hours, saw no change in job performance, but employees reported better work-life balance, less stress and overall better work satisfaction.
- A U.S. tech HR firm tried the four-day work week + failed to keep up with competition, so reverted back to five days.
What are NOOGANS saying?
We asked you all to weigh in and we got dozens of comments. 👇 Check some out below + continue the convo on Facebook + Instagram.
“That would work for some businesses but not all businesses. I work in marketing and we have to keep an eye on our clients accounts every day of the week…” — Victoria G.
“I love my four day work week.” — @missydmickle
“All for it. I think the 40 hour work week is outdated and ridiculous anyway. It’s one of the reasons I quit a traditional job to pursue freelancing. :)” — @clevergirldigital
