The Four-Day Workweek

A four-day workweek is also termed a “compressed workweek.” I think it has several advantages for both the employer and employee. 

– Save money on gas! Even though gas prices are low, I wouldn’t count on them staying low. You also save time commuting and sitting in boring traffic. 
– More flexible work/life balance. If you have kids, you can spend more time with them. If you’re like me and are working on a MBA, it allows you more homework time. Maybe you can even fit in a second job or pour your soul into a weekend hobby. 
– Higher engagement and employee satisfaction. Let’s face it; if you knew you had Friday off, would you not be happy? When I was allowed to work a compressed workweek, I gave 110% the days I was there and really enjoyed my 3 day weekend.
– This schedule could be used as a recruitment tool.
– Employers, have you thought about closing your office for a day? Depending on your industry, there might be a real cost benefit to closing one day out of the week.

Are there disadvantages? Well, yes. There are disadvantages to everything. 

– The obvious: Work burnout and fatigue. Working 10-hour shifts is physically draining. Lack of rest leads to poor health and lower productivity. Decreased alertness can also lead to workplace accidents. 
– For some industries, a compressed workweek just is not operationally feasible. Handle with caution if offering the compressed workweek to some positions, but not to others. This can create resentment among staff. 
– Clients or customers can complain if staff is not available. 

Do you have any additional thoughts? What does your employer allow? I personally love the idea of compressed workweeks. Unfortunately, this option is not afforded to me because of contractual agreements we have with our clients. Perhaps in the future that will change for me.