The days of glorifying busyness and “living to work” may soon be behind us as support for the 4-day workweek gains traction among American workers. And now business owners are onboard—many of whom support federal mandates for a shorter workweek. The Covid-19 pandemic opened up more opportunities for Americans to work remotely and reevaluate what work-life balance means to them. A study by Eagle Hill Consulting found that 83% of respondents said a four-day workweek would alleviate burnout. And according to a Joblist survey, a four-day workweek is what 94% of job seekers are looking for in the American workforce.

Why Business Owners Support 4-Day Workweek

Now that the possibility of a 4-day workweek is gaining momentum among policymakers, B2Breviews.com surveyed over 1,000 business owners and employees to gain insight into their perspectives on a potential switch to a shorter workweek. They found that over 60% of business owners support the implementation of a 4-day workweek as a federal requirement in the United States. A total of 80% of employees also support the 4-day workweek as a federal requirement. And 45% of business owners believe a 4-day workweek will become the norm within the next five years or less. More business owners are jumping on the 4-day workweek wagon, and the study cited five reasons for their support:

1. Provide a better workplace culture – 62%
2. Increase flexibility for employees – 61%
3. Increase employee creativity and innovation – 54%
4. Reduce operating costs – 39%
5. Reduce absenteeism – 31%

As the 4-day workweek makes its way toward becoming a reality for Americans, many business owners and employees support a shorter workweek but have concerns about the potential change. According to Steven Rydin, Chief Executive Officer at B2Breviews.com, “The growing support for a 4-day workweek among both business owners and employees has important implications for employers. Our research found that while only 27% of business owners implement a 4-day workweek, 57% are willing to pilot the idea, and 62% support the federal government implementing it.”

Despite the top three benefits of a 4-day workweek, Rydin cites some concerns such as the negative impact on customer service and satisfaction, going against industry standards and difficulty scheduling and coordinating. The top benefits for employees are increased free time for leisure and relationships, better work-life balance, reduced stress and improved health. But Rydin points out that employees have concerns, too, including reduced availability, longer response times may frustrate clients and difficulty adapting to changes at work.

Many workers believe a four-day work week—already implemented by Kickstarter and Microsoft—creates greater structure around work and adds a free weekday to relax and handle life matters. Co-founder and CEO of Monograph, Robert Yuen says hands-down employees need more time, which is why his company operates on a four-day workweek schedule. “A four-day workweek gives employees the space to take care of themselves, providing them space for personal development,” he told me. “Since this tech startup launched a four-day workweek in 2019, employee satisfaction has reached an all-time high.”

Although his company’s study found both advantages and disadvantages of a shorter workweek, Rydin concludes that it could be a win-win for both employers and employees. “Employers should take into account the potential benefits and concerns of a 4-day workweek when considering implementing it in their workplace. While it may require some adjustments, the potential benefits in terms of increased productivity, engagement and revenue may outweigh the costs. Additionally, offering a 4-day workweek may help attract and retain talent in a competitive labor market.”

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