Companies around the world try out four-day work week pilot programs

Four-Day Workweek: A Growing Demand?

Overview of the Four-Day Workweek Trend

• Education has indicated that planned pauses for site maintenance and technical updates are necessary, reflecting a structured approach to work schedules.

• There is a notable demand for a four-day workweek among Gen Z and Millennial employees, with 80% expressing interest; however, only 12% of U.S. workers report their employers offer this option.

• Younger generations show greater willingness to make sacrifices for a four-day workweek compared to older generations, indicating a shift in workplace expectations.

Sacrifices Required for Implementation

• Potential sacrifices include longer working hours, changing jobs or companies, and giving up remote work options; about 13% would consider taking a pay cut for this arrangement.

• The lead researcher from the Four-Day Workweek Global program highlights successful trials where companies implemented this schedule without pay cuts or increased hours.

Benefits Observed from Trials

• Remarkably, 95% of companies participating in four-day workweek pilots do not revert to traditional schedules after trial completion.

• Positive outcomes from these trials include significant improvements in employee well-being metrics such as burnout reduction, stress levels, anxiety management, life satisfaction, and job satisfaction.

Legislative Support

• In Massachusetts and Pennsylvania, there are legislative efforts pushing for pilot programs that promote the four-day workweek model while providing valuable data for other employers considering similar changes.