The concept of a 4-day work week is gaining traction worldwide, including in Singapore. This shift in work structure promises increased productivity and improved work-life balance, but it also raises questions about its impact on both employers and employees.
According to the People at Work survey from ADP, a significant 32% of Singaporean workers expect the 4-day work week to become the norm within the next five years. Moreover, 21% of respondents mentioned that their employers have already implemented this model to promote positive mental health, the highest percentage across the APAC region.
.
Info source: https://www.hcamag.com/asia/specialisation/benefits/singaporeans-expect-4-day-work-week-to-be-common-within-4-years/483697
.
Even Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong recognises the importance of flexibility in today’s work environment, noting that younger generations increasingly seek a better work-life balance and career flexibility. Adapting to these evolving demands is crucial for attracting and retaining talent.
.
Info source:
https://youtu.be/kmxMQ8cUaMg?si=YHdzJoIUOz4cmrk0
.
In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of a 4-day work week, how employers can balance and manage productivity, and whether this shift can lead to economic growth.
Pros and Cons of a 4-Day Work Week
Pros
1) Increased Productivity
Several studies suggest a shorter work week can lead to higher productivity. Ms. Jas Chua of Lazywaist Co. in Singapore, which sells shapewear, noted that they typically have Wednesdays off in addition to Saturdays and Sundays. “We’ve become a very output-driven company, instead of focusing on the process of sitting there, nine to six,” she said.
.
Info source: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/4-day-work-week-singapore-employees-business-life-balance-3007396
.
Employees are often more focused and motivated when they have more time to rest and recharge. This can translate into improved output quality and thereafter, higher company profits.
.
2）Improved Employee Well-being
A 4-day work week can significantly enhance employees’ work-life balance. It provides more time for personal pursuits, family, and rest, which can reduce burnout and improve mental health. The software company Buffer adopted a 4-day work week and found that 61.5 percent of Buffer teammates find it easier to balance work and life.
.
Info source: https://buffer.com/resources/four-day-work-week-update/
.
3）Better Talent Retention
Companies offering a 4-day work week can set themselves apart in a competitive job market. Tyler Grange, a UK-based environmental consultancy says: Productivity increased by 22%, job applications are up 88%, absenteeism is down by 66%, their carbon footprint is down with people driving less for work, and employees are less tired and happier.
.
Info source: https://www.cnbc.com/2023/02/24/worlds-biggest-4-day-workweek-experiment-shows-big-health-benefits.html
.
This flexibility can attract a larger pool of high-caliber candidates and improve employee retention.
4）Reduced Operating Costs:
Fewer working days can lead to decreased operating costs, such as lower utility bills and maintenance expenses. Microsoft Japan experimented a 4-day work week for its 2,300 employees for 5 weeks and found in addition to a 40% increase in productivity, its electricity consumption and paper usage were notably reduced compared to the same period of the previous year.
.
Info source: https://paragonrecruitment.co.nz/2024/04/30/is-a-four-day-work-week-a-realistic-option/#:~:text=Perpetual%20Guardian%3A%20In%202018%2C%20a,work%2Dlife%20balance%20among%20employees.
.
Cons
1）Potential Decrease in Output Quality
With less time in the office, there might be a rush to meet deadlines, potentially affecting the quality of work. Mr Gabriel Nam, a partner at Singapore headhunter firm Page Executive, noted that smaller companies in service industries might struggle to adopt a four-day workweek without risking a loss in productivity and competitiveness.
.
Info: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/big-read-4-day-work-week-work-life-balance-career-manpower-3793536
.
2）Longer Work Hours
To compensate for the lost day, employees might have to work longer hours during the 4-day week, which can negate some of the well-being benefits. Allcap, a UK engineering and industrial gas supplies company found, a typical trade-off for a three-day weekend is a more intense four-day workweek. “Without a fifth day to catch up, there’s generally more stress during the week to make up for the longer weekend.”
.
Info: https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20230319-four-day-workweek-trial-the-firms-where-it-didnt-work
.
3）Customer Satisfaction
For businesses that require continuous customer interaction, such as retail and hospitality, a 4-day work week might lead to decreased customer satisfaction due to reduced availability. Mr. Anand George, a partner at a Singapore law firm, noted that in litigation, court-set timelines and urgent case developments often dictate the pace of work, which is not always within a law firm’s control. He added that, while he can’t speak for his firm, he personally finds implementing a four-day workweek impractical for his field.
.
Info: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/big-read-4-day-work-week-work-life-balance-career-manpower-3793536
.
4）Sector-Specific Challenges
Industries like healthcare and customer service, which require 24/7 coverage or stand-by, may find it challenging to implement a 4-day work week. Singapore F&B establishment Coriander Leaf began a four-day workweek arrangement in 2021 but faced challenges, as implementing this schedule for existing employees risked compromising its operations.
.
Info:
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/big-read-4-day-work-week-work-life-balance-career-manpower-3793536
.
Economic Impact and Growth
The economic implications of a 4-day work week are significant. With more personal time, employees may spend more on leisure activities, contributing to economic growth. Moreover, improved mental health and work-life balance can reduce healthcare costs and increase overall productivity.
However, it’s essential to consider potential drawbacks, such as reduced overall output and the feasibility of implementing such a system across all industries. While a 4-day work week can lead to economic benefits, it requires careful planning and consideration of each industry’s unique needs and challenges.
Balancing and Managing Productivity
According to a report by Talentport, for employers considering a shift to a 4-day work week, balancing productivity with employee satisfaction is crucial. Strategies such as focusing on output rather than hours, flexible scheduling, effective use of technology, and regular feedback can help achieve this balance.
.
Info source: https://talentport.com/blog/4-day-work-week-jobs
.
Conclusion
As Singapore seeks to normalise flexible work arrangements, ensuring the local workforce remains competitive in skills, productivity, and work ethic will be crucial, according to Minister of State for Manpower Gan Siow Huang on April 23. She suggested that evaluating the suitability of such arrangements should focus on the specific role and company characteristics rather than adopting a uniform approach.
.
Info:
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/flexible-work-arrangement-guidelines-hire-local-workers-4-day-work-week-4285546
