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 exploring different ways to build a better system of work, and it feels like every week a new company announces they are trialing a four-day workweek. There are many reported and researched benefits of a four-day workweek, and lots of more anecdotal ones too. When my company moved to a four-day workweek, I personally found my work/life balance vastly improved, and I felt much more rested and relaxed, and able to achieve more during my 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:
Whilst a four-day workweek is still a relatively new concept, the results from companies who have trialled it are largely positive. Working less is a scary prospect for companies who adopt a “bums on seats” methodology to productivity, but companies who are willing to try something different are seeing the benefits. When Bolt moved to a four-day workweek they found that the Executive Leadership Team could easily cut down on meeting time by 90%, without sacrificing results.
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.
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