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The Pro’s and Con’s of a 4-day work week.


The Pro’s and Con’s of a 4-day work week.
  • AuthorShane Rodrigues
  • DateJuly 20, 2022
  • MediumNewsletter Article
In May 2022, AgCareers ran a social media poll and found that 89% of respondents would prefer a 4-day work week, even if they had to still work 40 hours.

The workplace is an ever developing and changing environment, and the COVID-19 pandemic put change into overdrive. It forced local businesses and giant corporations to adapt and change because of the uncertainty. This made the labour shortage around the globe worse and made those who are qualified even more valuable than they were before. The demand for qualified individuals in a wide range of markets has forced employers to bend to the needs of the employees, with more flexible hours, more paid time off, the option to work from home, and many other employee perks that may attract qualified people.  


 

To attract and keep quality workers, some businesses are making the switch to a standard 4-day work week for as many employees as possible. Some companies are keeping the same 40-hour work week, but doing it in 4 shifts, while others are removing the 5th day entirely and reducing the total amount of hours worked at the same pay as before. Regardless of which model was adopted, the employees reacted favourably, as they had more time to themselves. In May 2022, AgCareers ran a social media poll and found that 89% of respondents would prefer a 4-day work week, even if they had to still work 40 hours.

 

The pros of having a 4-day work week include:

  • Less time to do the same tasks, therefore increased productivity
  • Less downtime and fewer sick days taken, as employees can schedule doctors’ appointments on their days off, as well as other tasks that can only be done from 9 to 5 during the week
  • Easier to attract new qualified employees
  • Greater employee retention as it is easier to avoid burnout
  • Employees feel more valued and trusted, and overall happier, as they understand that the 4-day work week is a privilege and NOT a right
  • More rest so employees are ready to take on new challenges as they have the feeling of being “rested” and prepared.
  • Smaller carbon footprint as employees is not driving to the office as often & lower operating costs as the office will not be used as often. This is assuming employees don’t already work from home.
     

The cons of having a 4-day work week include:

  • Lacking coverage for customers, and this may lead to customer complaints. However, this can be avoided with correct scheduling.
  • Scheduling can be difficult to ensure everyone has the time off that they require, but also while maintain the company standard can create challenges for the workplace
  • Less working hours can lead to less work being performed. However, employees need to recognize that the compressed workweek is a privilege.
  • Some positions like animal care or services require additional coverage. If an employer establishes a 4-day work week, it will necessitate alternating schedules or flexibility.  
  • The compressed work week can add stress to some employees who feel like they do not have enough time to complete the tasks at hand, however it improves work life balance, so it’s a compromise some employees may or may not be willing to do.


 

A 4-day work week may not work for every organization or every employee out there, but the proof why it can be beneficial is out there! The global movement has been tested in European counties and is slowly making its way across the ocean to North America. Maybe one day, this will be the new normal.

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