When people talk about the future of work they usually talk about how machines and automation will impact the workforce. But there’s a different, more holistic conversation also evolving: the idea that the future of work should be good for workers, and not just good for profits.
Many companies are looking for new ways to create a better work system, and it seems like every week another company shares that they are testing a four-day workweek. There are many documented and researched benefits of a four-day workweek, along with plenty of anecdotal evidence too. When my company switched to a four-day workweek, I noticed a significant improvement in my work/life balance, and I felt more rested and relaxed, allowing me to accomplish more during those four days.
Moving to a four-day workweek is good for staff, for companies, for work/life balance and for the environment. Check out this infographic below to learn more about the benefits of a four-day workweek:
Although the four-day workweek is still a fairly new idea, the feedback from companies that have tried it is mostly positive. For businesses that focus on having employees present as a measure of productivity, working fewer days can seem daunting. However, organizations open to new approaches are experiencing the advantages. When Bolt switched to a four-day workweek, they discovered that the Executive Leadership Team could reduce meeting time by 90% without losing effectiveness.
It is very possible that if companies dedicate the time, and make the commitment, to implementing a four-day workweek that each individual company and team will find their own ways to become more productive, improve processes, and become more efficient.
Thinking about the future of work in a new way means not being afraid to tear up the rule book and start again. Not everybody wants or needs the same type of employment, and moving to a four-day workweek is the way to start showing commitment to the bigger conversation.