June saw the start of the 4-day working week trial.
Over 70 companies and 3,000 employees started the trial which is set to last for 6 months on Monday 6th June 2022. The trial consists of employees working 80% of their week for 100% of their pay, providing they still commit to 100% productivity.
Researchers will be working with the companies to understand the impact on productivity and wellbeing of all employees participating. They will also be looking at any changes to inclusivity, equality and working environment for those included.
We’ve experienced significant changes in the world over the last few years and being part of this trial, the UK joins a huge global movement to consider how to address the work-life balance employees are asking for. The great resignation has created a need for businesses to look at a wider scope of options to help retain more talent than ever before.
This trial has the potential to help reduce burnout, ease the cost-of-living impacts, and support social responsibility for climate change, meaning the 4-day week is a serious consideration for many companies.
It isn’t going to be preferable for everyone or every business, yet it will be great to understand the findings to see how others can offer this as a part of their flexible options.
We’ve seen a shift to output focus from businesses rather than hours worked, I know many who can put in a 40-hour week and achieve as little as possible! I’m sure you have examples too… Obviously for some industries there is a requirement to cover serviceable hours for clients, those in leisure, retail, and hospitality that that may find this raises some challenges to, it’s all about finding the right fit for your business. No one size fit’s all approach. I’ve been working closely with my clients as we’ve moved into more of a hybrid working world to make sure performance is based on output and results rather than how long the employee is sat at their desk (for example).
Having a range of flexible offers can have a positive impact on employees and business performance. My advice would be to approach flexibility with an open mind, its about working smarter, not harder.