Exploring the Benefits and Risks of the 4-Day Workweek
By In today's society, the concept of a four-day workweek is gaining traction. Rather than the traditional five-day workweek, a four-day workweek offers employees more time to pursue personal interests and endeavors that were not previously possible with the five-day workweek. Several companies are now implementing the four-day workweek, and research from Robert Half, an employment agency, shows that 93% of U.S. Managers support the concept.[0]
The 4-day workweek is attractive to both existing and potential employees, but employers should understand the risks that come with it before making the switch. Employers should consult with legal counsel, as well as consider the following factors before transitioning to the four-day workweek: increased productivity, balancing priorities, and a shift in priorities.[1]
The David Suzuki Foundation has had a four-day workweek since its inception in 1990, and the Foundation believes it has improved employees' lives by giving them time to rest, pursue other interests, explore nature, volunteer, and enjoy the company of family and friends.[2]
The 4 Day Week Global, a non-profit group, has also published findings of their trial into the impacts of a four-day workweek on businesses.[3] In February 2022, 33 companies enacted a “meaningful work time reduction” for six months without reducing pay.[3] The trial showed that employers can successfully transition to a four-day workweek without sacrificing productivity.[3]
Overall, a four-day workweek would not only ease the burden off of many workers but also give them more time to pursue personal endeavors that are not possible with the highly demanding five-day work week. Employers who are considering implementing a 4-day work week should take into account the risks and rewards that come with it before making the switch.
0. “Survey Finds Support For Four-Day Workweek | News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM” News/Talk/Sports 94.9 WSJM, 31 Jan. 2023, https://www.wsjm.com/2023/01/31/survey-finds-support-for-four-day-workweek/
1. “Ways to work smarter, not harder during the four-day week” HRZone, 2 Feb. 2023, https://www.hrzone.com/lead/change/ways-to-work-smarter-not-harder-during-the-four-day-week
2. “These Montreal Companies Offer A 4-Day Week (Mostly) & They're Hiring Right Now” MTL Blog, 1 Feb. 2023, https://www.mtlblog.com/montreal/these-montreal-companies-offer-a-4-day-week-mostly-theyre-hiring-right-now
3. “Four-day weeks are working for some businesses. What about architects?” Archinect, 31 Jan. 2023, https://archinect.com/news/article/150337527/four-day-weeks-are-working-for-some-businesses-what-about-architects
