Is a Four-Day Workweek Right for Your Business?

Everybody loves a holiday weekend. So, what if we had 52 of them per year?

It sounds extreme, but research is backing the four-day workweek. An Icelandic study of 2,500 workers between 2015 and 2019 concluded that a compressed work schedule was an “overwhelming success.” In most offices, productivity actually remained the same or even improved.

The world’s biggest four-day workweek trial is currently taking place at 60 U.S. companies, as well as many other companies in the U.K., Japan, Spain, and other countries. Employees in the program are putting in approximately 32 to 35 hours per week — with no less pay — while aiming for 100% productivity.

Should you consider a similar experiment for your business?

The Pros

• Almost everybody wants it. A survey of 1,000 U.S. workers found that 92% support a four-day workweek, with nearly 80% saying it would improve their mental health.
• Burnout might become obsolete. Work-life balance makes employees more loyal and effective. Why run them ragged in five days if they can get as much (or more) done in four?
• A breather will help you, too. Don’t just think of your employees — think of yourself! A clearer mind improves your decisions.

The Cons

• Longer days. A four-day workweek can mean reduced overall hours, but it can also mean 10-hour shifts that equal the traditional 40 hours. This structure may be difficult to balance, especially for employees with children.
• Scheduling issues. With one fewer workday, you’ll need to plan more carefully for anything time sensitive. If your clients or partners still work five days, this could also present coordination challenges.
• Your competitors: If the competition is still grinding Monday through Friday, they might pull ahead with their extra availability. (Unless, that is, your more-appealing workweek attracts their top talent?)