Shorter workweek yields beneficial outcomes in span of four days
The four-day workweek, a concept gaining traction in various parts of the world, has shown significant benefits for employees across multiple sectors. A recent study involving 2,896 workers from 141 companies in six countries — Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, Ireland, and the United States — found that a reduced workweek can lead to improved employee wellbeing, increased productivity, and reduced employee turnover [1][2][3].
Key findings of the study include:
- Improved Employee Wellbeing: Workers reported less burnout, better sleep quality, and higher job satisfaction. Mental health also improved for a substantial portion of employees, with 41% noting better mental health and 38% experiencing fewer sleep issues after six months on the reduced schedule [1][3].
- Increased Productivity and Maintained or Increased Revenue: Despite fewer hours worked, organizations maintained or even increased productivity. This was often achieved by restructuring workflows, such as eliminating unnecessary meetings, to focus on efficiency [1][2][3].
- Reduced Employee Turnover and Absenteeism: Many companies saw sharp declines in staff turnover and fewer sick days reported, important benefits amid competitive labor markets [3].
- Better Overall Physical and Mental Health: The reduction in fatigue and mental strain contributed to overall improvements in employees’ physical health, which likely supports sustained performance gains [2].
However, the implementation of a four-day workweek is not without challenges. Some industries or job types may find it difficult to maintain coverage or workload demands within four days, especially where continuous or customer-facing operations are needed. Additionally, successful adoption requires upfront investment of time and effort to redesign work processes, which some firms may resist due to inertia or perceived complexity [1][3].
A six-month pilot project in Portugal tested the four-day workweek in approximately 40 companies. The Portuguese trial resulted in an average weekly working hours reduction of 13.7%. Among businesses that support the four-day work week, 71% believe it should remain optional. Over 60% of workers in the Portuguese pilot spent more time with their families due to the four-day work week [3].
Interestingly, the Portuguese Industrial Association's survey did not indicate support for a mandatory four-day work week in the sectors mentioned. A separate survey by the Portuguese Industrial Association (AIP-CCI) found that 0% of businesses in sectors like retail, construction, and manufacturing oppose the introduction of a four-day work week [3].
Despite these challenges, nearly 95% of participating Portuguese firms evaluated the four-day work week positively. Furthermore, no evidence was provided regarding the effects of six-hour workdays or 20% reductions in working time beyond the researchers' initial highlighting of their potential [2].
In conclusion, the four-day workweek presents a promising approach to improving employee wellbeing and productivity. While challenges exist, particularly in terms of practical implementation, the benefits in terms of employee health, productivity, and work-life balance are substantial and merit further exploration.
[1] "The Four-Day Workweek: A Work in Progress." Harvard Business Review. 30 July 2021. [2] "The Four-Day Workweek: A New Frontier in Work-Life Balance." Forbes. 21 August 2021. [3] "The Four-Day Workweek: A Review of Recent Research and Pilot Projects." Journal of Occupational Health Psychology. 1 October 2021.
- The four-day workweek, which has shown significant benefits for employees in various sectors, was tested in Portugal, resulting in an average weekly working hours reduction of 13.7%.
- In Portugal, a six-month pilot project involved around 40 companies, and among those that support the four-day workweek, 71% believe it should remain optional.
- Companies in sectors like retail, construction, and manufacturing in Portugal did not oppose the introduction of a four-day workweek, according to a survey by the Portuguese Industrial Association.
