Working can get tiresome for all and it’s a natural human experience that everyone gets tired of. However, to tackle the unsatisfactory groans of employees, many workplaces around the globe are implementing a 4-Day Per Week Work schedule for all. Although this seems like a good initiative at first glance, there’s always more than meets the eye.
In this article, we are going to discuss the pros and cons of the implementation of a 4 Day Work Week on a global scale. Thus, without further ado, let’s just jump into it!
There have been many well documented observations on how a 4 day work week can actually benefit both companies and employees. Let’s take a look at some of the most important ones.
Boosts Work Motivation For Employees
Although some may argue that a 4-day work schedule can be destructive for a company, it turns out that it can increase the productivity of the employees to a great extent. A lot of employees feel more lenient about coming back to their jobs the following week and working more diligently. The huge boost in the morale of employees only promotes productivity.
Flexibility Brings Retention And Recruitment
Offering a more flexible work schedule is a perk that keeps millennials at bay in this modern age. Flexibility is the most desired option among millennials in the workplace. Working for a company that embraces global trends and offers flexible hours will empower millennials, resulting in improved productivity and engagement.
Cuts Down Costs
A 4-day work week goes sideways in this case. It helps everyone cut down on costs, when it comes to the workplace, the obvious one is that by closing the office one extra day per week, operating costs would be reduced. Employees would also save money on commuting and day-to-day expenses for lunch etc.
Now, let's take a look at the 4 day work week from a different perspective. There is always a drawback to every concept. And a 4 day work week is not an exception. Here are some instances in which it could actually be an issue.
Not Suitable For All Job Forces
Essential workers do not get the privilege of sharing the luxury of a 4-day/week work schedule.
However, some industries adapt better than others to a four-day workweek. People need to use healthcare services every day, so a nurse or doctor can't put in the hours of 5 days in 4 days.
The same goes for airport workers, nurses, firefighters, etc. Transitioning to a 4-day workweek is difficult for public servants.
Curse In Disguise For Some
A 4 day/week work schedule might make employees smile, but it does not necessarily mean less work! Employers use this as bait to overwork employees during work hours to make up for the additional day on the weekend. This has been proven to be a successful tactic for some employers, but not so for employees who get misguided.
Expensive Risk For Employers
Although workers may rejoice at the idea of a 4-day work week, employers may not share the same excitement. According to a 2-year long pilot by Sweden, this proved to be expensive. This poses a major risk for employers, especially if employees fail to meet work requirements.
Not meeting deadlines or meeting certain work standards can make employers feel different about implementing a 4 day/week work schedule.
This content was provided by yours truly, Dig Detox. Our mission is to help people use technology safely as we believe health is our most valuable asset. For further articles, research, and information on the movement, please visit www.digdetox.com.
Sources CNBC