“Work smarter, not harder.” This adage has taken on new meaning as companies around the world explore innovative ways to enhance employee productivity and well-being. One such trend gaining momentum is the adoption of a 4-day work week.
Imagine having an extra day each week to pursue personal passions, spend time with loved ones, or simply recharge. In this article, we will explore the rise of companies with a 4 day work weeks, and as well as the impact of 4-day work week jobs on both remote and office-based companies, and uncover the benefits it brings to the table.
Rise of the 4-Day Work Week
The concept of a shorter workweek isn’t entirely novel. Back in the 1950s, labor leader Walter Reuther advocated for a four-day, 32-hour workweek in the United States. Even earlier, fuel oil and gasoline delivery truck drivers were already working 4-day weeks in the 1940s. These early experiments hinted at the potential benefits of reduced work hours, but it wasn’t until recent years that the idea gained widespread attention.
Fast forward to today, and the four-day workweek is no longer relegated to the pages of history books. It’s a concept that’s rapidly gaining traction in the modern workplace. Fueled by a growing desire for work-life balance and a willingness to explore innovative approaches to work, companies with a 4-day work week are popping up across diverse industries.
This shift can be attributed in part to the seismic changes brought on by the global pandemic. The past few years have forced a collective reevaluation of priorities, with burnout reaching alarming levels and the lines between work and personal life becoming increasingly blurred. As a result, employees are yearning for schedules that offer more time for rest, rejuvenation, and pursuing passions outside of the office.
20 Remote and Officed Based Companies With 4 Day Work Weeks
1. Amazon
The e-commerce giant, Amazon, has increasingly mentioned four-day workweeks in job listings. Between October 2021 and March 2022, almost one-third of Amazon job listings included this enticing option.
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2. BigLaw
Several law firms under the BigLaw umbrella adopted the 4-day work week in the summer of 2023. Firms like Davis Polk & Wardwell, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom, and Weil, Gotshal & Manges implemented a true 4-day work week, where employees work only from Monday to Thursday, getting an extra day off every Friday, all while receiving the same pay.
3. Awin
This global affiliate marketing platform initiated a six-month trial of a 4.5-day workweek in December 2020. By early 2021, Awin’s entire team worldwide transitioned to a four-day workweek without salary reductions. Their focus shifted from input-based measurements to outcome-driven results, emphasizing employee well-being and productivity.
4. Bit.io
Founded in San Francisco in 2019, Bit.io launched a trial for a four-day, 32-hour workweek. The success of this experiment led them to make it a permanent policy. Their team remained just as productive, enjoying extra time for family, creative projects, and travel.
5. DNSFilter
DNSFilter, a cybersecurity company, embarked on a similar journey. They piloted a four-day workweek in the summer of 2021 and then decided to keep an alternating four-day week as a permanent policy. Employees are permitted to work a 32-hour workweek with no cuts in wages or benefits, with two groups rotating to take Fridays off so that everyone has two weekends off per month.
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6. Elephant Ventures
Elephant Ventures, a digital innovation and transformation company, also embraced the four-day workweek. Their experiment revealed valuable learnings. By giving their team Fridays off, they aimed to reduce stress, improve work-life balance, and boost productivity. The results? A brighter, fuller life for employees and a smarter, more efficient workweek.
7. GooseChase
GooseChase, a software and data engineering company headquartered in New York, started testing a four-day workweek in August 2021. Their goal? Prevent employee burnout and maintain work-life balance during the pandemic. The arrangement paid off, with happier employees and sustained productivity.
8. Kickstarter
Kickstarter, the crowdfunding platform, piloted a four-day workweek. Their unique perspective as a public benefit corporation influenced their decision. While measuring success beyond profits, they focused on how their staff’s work helps creators realize their ideas. The four-day workweek allowed Kickstarter employees to live brighter, fuller lives while maintaining productivity. It’s a small step toward regaining balance and encouraging self-care.
9. Panasonic
Panasonic, a global electronics company, has been exploring the four-day workweek. While not fully implemented yet, their interest in this trend signals a willingness to adapt to changing work norms. As they continue to evaluate the impact, Panasonic joins the ranks of companies rethinking traditional schedules.
10. thredUP
thredUP, an online thrift store, tested the waters with a four-day workweek. Their goal was to enhance work-life balance and boost employee morale. While still in the pilot phase, thredUP’s experience sheds light on the potential benefits of shorter workweeks.
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11. Ecosia
Ecosia, the search engine with a mission to plant trees, embarked on a unique journey. They implemented a four-day workweek, allowing their team to enjoy longer weekends while maintaining productivity. Ecosia’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond reforestation—it now includes nurturing a healthier work-life balance for its employees.
12. Atom Bank
Atom Bank, a digital banking institution, explored the four-day workweek. Their trial involved a 32-hour workweek, emphasizing efficiency and well-being. By optimizing their time, Atom Bank aimed to create a more focused and motivated workforce.
13. Exactly
Exactly, a creative agency, decided to embrace the four-day workweek. Their experiment focused on enhancing creativity and employee satisfaction. The shorter week allowed their team to recharge, fostering a more vibrant and inspired work environment.
14. Shake Shack
Shake Shack, the beloved burger chain, dipped its toes into the four-day workweek pool. In 2019, they began testing a four-day workweek for their general managers. The results were promising—increased employee retention and even savings on childcare costs due to the reduced schedule.
However, the pandemic cast a shadow, and the program was put on pause. Shake Shack is now focused on hiring more hourly workers, offering competitive wages, and enhancing diversity and career development.
15. Buffer
Buffer, the remote-first company known for its transparency, embarked on a bold experiment. In May 2020, amidst the pandemic, Buffer’s CEO Joel Gascoigne pushed for a trial of the four-day workweek across the team. The results were remarkable: increased productivity and improved well-being.
By June 2020, Buffer shifted to a four-day workweek for the rest of the year. Employees found more time for family, passions, and learning. The secret? Focusing on outcomes rather than traditional input measurements. While the pandemic played a role, Buffer’s commitment to well-being remains unwavering.
16. Bolt
Bolt, another San Francisco-based company, piloted a four-day workweek in autumn 2021. After a three-month trial, they decided to make it a permanent fixture. The shorter week didn’t compromise productivity; instead, it fostered a healthier work-life balance for their employees.
Bolt’s journey exemplifies the ongoing shift toward more flexible and efficient work arrangements.
17. Regen Network
Regen Network isn’t just about carbon credits; it’s about ecological regeneration. Their platform mobilizes capital to support on-the-ground projects that remove carbon, restore biodiversity, and combat climate change. As they invest in high-integrity carbon credits, they also invest in their team’s well-being. While not explicitly adopting a four-day workweek, Regen Network’s mission aligns with sustainability and balance.
18. Basecamp
The Chicago-based software company has been practicing “summer hours” since 2008. From March 1 through August 31, employees work four days a week, totaling 32 hours. Basecamp’s philosophy centers on prioritization and efficiency, allowing staff to hone their skills and maintain fresh energy.
19. Justuno
Justuno, a conversion marketing SaaS company, made a significant change. They launched a shortened workweek companywide, allowing their team to enjoy permanent three-day weekends. The move aimed to prevent burnout and promote employee health. By working smarter, not harder, Justuno prioritized both their company’s success and their team’s well-being.
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20. Monograph
Monograph, a company specializing in project management software, also joined the movement. Their commitment to a four-day workweek reflects a dedication to employee well-being and efficient work practices. By optimizing their time, Monograph aims to achieve better results for their clients.
Benefits of 4-Day Work Week Jobs
Imagine having an extra day off each week—a mini-weekend to recharge, explore hobbies, or binge-watch your favorite series. Well, that’s the magic of the 4-day work week. But it’s not just about reclaiming Fridays for leisure; it’s a strategic move that brings forth a multitude of benefits.
Let’s dive in:
1. Enhanced Productivity
- Quality Over Quantity: With fewer days at work, you get to focus on high-impact tasks. It’s like decluttering your work life—less noise, more signal.
- Sharper Focus: The compressed schedule encourages you to prioritize essential tasks. Say goodbye to endless meetings and hello to meaningful work.
2. Improved Well-Being
- Work-Life Balance: That extra day off? It’s your secret weapon against burnout. You recharge, maybe take a yoga class, or simply nap guilt-free.
- Reduced Burnout: A shorter workweek means less stress. Your mental health does a happy dance.
3. Talent Attraction and Retention
- Attracting Top Talent: Companies offering a 4-day work week stand out. Talented folks want employers who value their sanity.
- Employee Retention: Satisfied employees stick around. It’s like a loyalty card for workplaces.
4. Environmental High-Five
- Reduced Commuting: Fewer workdays mean fewer commutes. Less traffic, fewer emissions. Mother Earth approves.
5. Health Benefits
- Physical Health: You hit the gym, cook healthier meals, and maybe even meditate. Your body thanks you.
- Mental Health: Less stress, more zen. Your mind does a little happy dance too.
6. Increased Creativity and Innovation
- Breathing Space: That extra day? It’s for hobbies, side hustles, and staring at clouds. Fresh perspectives lead to brilliant ideas.
7. Cost Savings
- Operational Costs: Companies save on utilities, office supplies, and coffee. (Okay, maybe not the coffee.)
- Employee Expenses: You spend less on gas, work attire, and sad desk lunches.
8. Positive Company Culture
- Employee Satisfaction: A 4-day work week says, “We care about your life outside these walls.”
- Boosted Morale: You’re motivated. You’re loyal. You’re ready to conquer.
9. Family Time and Work-Life Integration
- Quality Family Time: That extra day? It’s for brunch with loved ones, building LEGO towers, and maybe teaching your dog a new trick.
- Flexible Scheduling: Juggle work and life like a pro. No more “Sorry, gotta work late” excuses.
10. Competitive Edge
- Differentiation: Companies with a 4-day work week raise eyebrows. Clients, partners, and investors take notice.
Moreover, the 4-day work week isn’t just a trend; it’s a strategic choice. As more companies embrace it, we’re rewriting the work-life playbook. So whether you’re remote or office-bound, here’s to quality time, productivity, and a happier you.
Final Word
Finally, the future of work is being reshaped, and the 4-day workweek is at the forefront of this transformation. While challenges exist, the success stories and potential benefits for both employees and businesses are undeniable.
Are you ready to ditch the traditional workweek and embrace a healthier work-life balance? The good news is, you have options! More and more companies with a 4-day workweek are popping up across industries. 4 Day work week companies are not just a trend – they’re a viable and potentially transformative approach to work.
Common FAQs About 4-Day Work Week Jobs
Q1. So, how many hours do you actually work in a 4-day workweek?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer! Some companies with a 4-day workweek condense the traditional 40 hours into four longer days, like 8 or 10 hours each. Others keep the same daily schedule but simply eliminate one workday altogether. It really depends on the specific company and their approach.
Q2. Sounds great, but won’t I just have to cram everything into fewer days?
That’s a common concern, but many companies with a 4-day workweek report seeing increased productivity. The idea is that with one less day, employees become more focused and eliminate time-wasting activities. Think of it as a chance to streamline your workflow and get more done in less time!
Q3. Is the 4-day workweek just a fad, or is it here to stay?
It’s definitely gaining serious momentum! The success of pilot programs across various industries is generating a lot of buzz. While it’s too early to say if it will become the dominant model, it’s clear that the 4-day workweek is a viable option with significant potential benefits for both employees and businesses.
Q4. I’m interested! How can I find companies with a 4-day workweek?
The good news: the 4-day workweek is gaining serious traction! Companies are starting to advertise it as a perk, but the landscape is still changing. Searching for “4-day work week jobs” or companies known for innovative work cultures can help. But wouldn’t it be amazing to streamline your search and land your dream 4-day workweek job faster?
That’s where The JobScope comes in. We’re a leading job search agency known for connecting talented individuals like you with dream jobs that fit your lifestyle needs.
Contact us to learn how we can help with you with our various job searching services.
Q5. This all sounds good, but what are the downsides of a 4-day workweek?
It’s not a perfect fit for every situation. Some industries might face operational challenges in condensing their workflow. There are also concerns about workload distribution and ensuring a smooth transition. However, the success stories out there show that these challenges can be overcome with careful planning and open communication.
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