The idea of a four-day workweek is gaining traction among students, job seekers, and forward-thinking professionals. While having a regular three-day weekend sounds ideal, this alternative schedule isn’t a universal solution. Whether you’re considering this schedule for yourself or your team, it’s essential to weigh the benefits, challenges, and how it fits your overall goals.
What Is a Four-Day Workweek?
Traditionally, a full-time schedule consists of five 8-hour workdays, totaling 40 hours per week. With a four-day workweek, employees work the same 40 hours, but over four 10-hour days instead. Some companies rotate which day is taken off based on business needs or employee preference. It’s not limited to having every Friday or Monday off.
How Pay and Overtime Are Affected
For salaried exempt employees (those not eligible for overtime), a four-day workweek typically does not impact compensation. The employee receives the same salary, regardless of daily hours.
For non-exempt employees, laws vary. In most U.S. states, overtime is calculated weekly, so 4×10-hour shifts equal standard 40 hours. However, in states like California, any work over 8 hours per day requires overtime pay—even if total weekly hours are 40.
Adjusting Vacation Policies
If your company uses “days” rather than “hours” to track vacation, things can get confusing. It’s better to define vacation in terms of hours—such as “80 hours of vacation” instead of “10 days.” This ensures fairness across both four- and five-day schedules.
Pros of a Four-Day Workweek
- More personal time: An extra day off allows for improved work-life balance.
- Reduced commuting: One less day of travel saves money and time.
- Increased productivity: Some studies report that employees working fewer days are more focused and efficient.
- Stronger talent retention: Offering flexible schedules makes companies more attractive to job seekers.
Cons of a Four-Day Workweek
- Longer workdays: Ten-hour days can lead to fatigue and decreased productivity by late afternoon.
- Childcare limitations: Most daycare centers operate around standard 8–5 hours.
- Client availability: If your customers expect 5-day coverage, reduced schedules may disrupt service.
- Pressure to respond: Employees might feel obligated to reply to emails or attend meetings on their day off—especially if others work traditional hours.
Should You Consider a Four-Day Workweek?
The answer depends on your specific situation. For job seekers and students entering the workforce, flexibility is a major benefit. For employers, offering a four-day workweek may improve retention and attract top talent—but only if business operations allow it.
You don’t need to make permanent changes right away. A pilot program can help test whether this format enhances productivity and employee satisfaction. Flexibility in today’s job market is often seen as a major perk, and giving workers more control over their time can lead to stronger engagement.
Conclusion
The four-day workweek is a trend worth exploring—especially if you’re looking to improve work-life balance, reduce burnout, or attract flexible-minded professionals. But it’s not for every company or every role. Take the time to evaluate how this schedule aligns with your goals, your team’s needs, and your industry standards. With the right planning, it could be a game-changer for your career or your business.