The 4-day workweek has been a topic of discussion for years. However, it has gained popularity recently with countries such as Spain passing legislation for a 4-day workweek trial. But as a business owner, does a 4-day workweek make sense for your business?

Watch Productivity Reach New Heights

One of the biggest benefits of a 4-day schedule is increased productivity. This may seem counterintuitive, but studies have shown that employees who work a 4-day workweek are actually more productive than their counterparts who work a traditional 5-day work schedule. For example, a study conducted by the University of Auckland found that team members who worked a 4-day workweek reported a 24% increase in job satisfaction and a 7.6% increase in productivity. Managers reported a 20% increase in productivity. Another study by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) found that 55% of companies that implemented a 4-day workweek reported an increase in productivity. This increase in productivity can be attributed to employees having more time to rest and recharge, leading to increased energy levels and motivation.

An Emphasis on Work-Life Balance

Another benefit of a 4-day workweek is improved work-life balance. Employees who have more time to pursue hobbies, spend time with family and friends, and take care of their mental and physical health are generally more satisfied with their jobs. This can lead to better retention rates and a more engaged workforce. In fact, a study by the Pew Research Center found that workers who are satisfied with their work-life balance are more likely to say they feel productive, motivated, and successful in their careers.

Help Save Your Business Money

In addition to these benefits, a reduced schedule can also result in cost savings for businesses. By reducing the number of days that employees are in the office, businesses can save on overhead costs such as energy and maintenance. It can also help companies save on employee benefits, such as healthcare and retirement plans. For example, a study conducted by the Workforce Institute at Kronos found that a 4-day workweek could save businesses up to 20% on labor costs.

Beware of the Risks

Despite these benefits, there are drawbacks to a 4-day workweek that need to be considered. One of the biggest concerns is reduced availability. With employees only available for 4 days instead of 5, it can be difficult to coordinate schedules and workloads with clients and customers who are used to a 5-day schedule. This can lead to reduced availability for clients and customers, which can negatively affect the overall customer experience.

Another drawback of a 4-day workweek is longer workdays. In order to maintain productivity levels, employees may need to work longer hours during their 4-day workweek. This can lead to increased fatigue and burnout, which can negatively affect the quality of work produced.

Resistance to change is also a concern when introducing a 4-day workweek. Employees who are used to a traditional 5-day workweek may resist the change. It can be as difficult for them to change schedules as it is for the organization. Additionally, depending on the industry, a 4-day workweek may not be financially feasible. In some cases, businesses may need to hire additional staff to cover the reduced availability of employees, which can lead to increased costs.

When considering whether a 4-day workweek makes sense for your business, it’s important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks. Factors such as industry, workforce, and financial feasibility should be considered before making a decision. While a 4-day workweek may not be suitable for every business, it can offer benefits such as increased productivity, improved work-life balance, and cost savings for those that do implement it.

If you need further assistance making effective HR decisions that work best for your business, request a call from VensureHR for a free, custom diagnostic.