Lots of employers keen on four-day week – as long as it’s in the office

A large number of employers would consider offering a four-day week if staff spent the whole time in the office, according to a survey.

Almost 12,000 employers and employees were asked to give their feedback on a shorter working week, and support for the change was strong.

The latest poll, led by employment firm Hays, found almost two-thirds of workers would prefer to change to an office-based four-day week.

And a third of employers would be more likely to make the switch if staff spent all four days in the workplace.

Just under two-thirds of employees would consider moving to another company if it was offering a shorter week, compared to just over 50% in a survey conducted a year ago.

A recent trial, which saw 61 companies across the country test out a four-day week for six months, resulted in the vast majority extending the scheme while a third made it permanent.

Gaelle Blake, of Hays UK and Ireland, said: ‘It’s clear from our research that the appetite for a four-day working week has increased from both professionals and employers.

‘However, in reality, only 5% of respondents to our survey are working for an organisation where this is actually happening.

‘Organisations were quick to adopt hybrid working as a result of the pandemic, however the four-day week is a much bigger cultural and operational shift for many organisations.’

She said Hays’ research showed the importance of flexibility, as professionals say they are willing to travel into the office more often if employers are willing to be fluid with their working days.

Gaelle added: ‘Whilst the four-day working week is an attractive offering for workers, there are lots of ways for employers to stand out from the crowd by allowing staff flexibility in the form of hybrid working, flexible hours and more.’

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