Maintaining productivity when implementing a 4-day week

The four-day work week discussion has been making global headlines for some time now. The big question that many employers may have is: Will productivity be affected?

Maintaining productivity while implementing a four-day week will require careful planning, and according to Capterra’s content analyst, Laura Burgess, expectations must be set.

“Many businesses are likely to have flexible working policies in place already, with which the four-day week can be added. Careful planning, establishing expectations and focusing on optimising work processes can help with its implementation,” Ms Burgess commented.

“Employers should consider leveraging technology and software to enhance productivity, especially tools that were perhaps already adopted and used to facilitate remote working.”

The benefits of a four-day week could be significant. While it may not be suitable for every business, those who are able to effectively leverage this path to better flexibility could reap the benefits.

“The four-day work week enables employees to have more time for their personal lives and spend more time with their families or on hobbies. We found an improved work/life balance was the second-most frequently selected answer for surveyed employees when asked to choose the factors that contribute to their satisfaction at work (51 per cent cited this as one of their top three). Satisfied employees are generally more motivated and committed to their work, which can contribute to a company's overall productivity,” said Ms Burgess.

“We also asked survey takers whose company has not yet introduced the four-day week what the top advantages would be. Again, a better work/life balance was most chosen (75 per cent). Many employees also said they think it would positively impact their wellbeing (55 per cent) and give them more time to disconnect from work (42 per cent), which can be considered core components of harmonious living.”

The possibilities – and potential challenges of a four-day week were discussed in a recent HR Leader webcast. The big question on many people’s minds is: Will this be commonplace in the future of work? According to Ms Burgess, there is a possibility.

“The four-day work week is being experimented with and trialled by companies worldwide and, as our survey highlights, looks likely to impact employee job satisfaction positively. Even though it is still uncertain whether the four-day work week will become widespread across all industries, it deserves serious consideration by employers. This is particularly true for companies looking to attract and retain talent, enhance employee work/life balance and adapt to changing work trends,” she concluded.