Several companies across Australia and New Zealand are preparing for a pilot trial of a four-day work week. Organised by the not-for-profit, 4 Day Week Global, the pilot will begin in August with participating companies implementing a 4-day work week model without reducing staff salaries.
The expectation for employees and staff working only 4 days a week is that they maintain 100 percent of their current productivity. The companies taking part in this trial include a marketing agency, communications firm, and a tech consultancy.
Previous trials have shown a remarkable display of productivity and commitment by both employers and employees. In Iceland, 2500 public sector workers participated in two large trials. Results demonstrated no drop in productivity among participants, and a significant increase in employee well-being.
What does the 4-day work week mean?
As a small business owner, it’s evident that the traditional method of 5 days in the office is under significant pressure. Work-life balance, flexibility, well-being are not just buzzwords, they are increasingly demanded by employees, especially among younger workforces. They are values and traits that potential staff look for when deciding where to work.
While a normalised 4-day work week is still a way off, it makes sense to consider what the idea signals for your business.
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