Employees want to improve their work/life balance, but not all options suit all positions or individuals. If you work in a job where you need to be in the workplace, the compressed workweek is often a viable option.
What is a Compressed Workweek?
Employees either work all hours in less time or work fewer hours, but not so much that you lose a significant amount of their wages. The most common form of the compressed workweek is 10 hours per day for four days, and Fridays off, however it’s not the only option.
Some employees work 9 hours a day for five days in one week and then 9 hours a day for four days in the second. They still work 80 hours in two-weeks, get every other Friday off, and retain their total salary.
Some employees are willing to work 72 hours per week for 10 percent less so they can have a long weekend every week. If they shave 10 percent off their commuter expenses, they end up with an extra day off without net income loss.
Finally, not all employees need to work a compressed workweek. It may work for some positions, but not work for others. A compressed workweek is an agreement between individual employees and the company.
What Are The Benefits for Employees?
Your commute is outside of rush hour and you save time since you travel to your workplace less often. This often reduces stress and cuts fuel consumption and vehicle maintenance costs.
You have more time to attend to your personal responsibilities, which means you can fully focus on your work. With fewer people in the workplace, you also have fewer distractions and avoid office politics.
The most obvious benefit is extra time for your personal activities. You can spend more time with friends and family, pursue your interests, and relax. If your employer does not offer a compressed workweek now, you may want to convince them of the benefits.
What Are The Benefits for Employers?
A recent FlexJobs survey found 61% of single employees considered leaving, or left a job, because it did not offer flexibility. 80% of parents value flexible working arrangements.
According to a Zenefits survey, 73% of employees said flexible work arrangements increased their satisfaction at work. Happier employees are more productive employees and they tend to stay with a company longer. It’s also easier to recruit top talent, since employees and the community speak highly of the business.
Additionally, extending the work day can increase the length of the business day to better serve others. Employees can dedicate themselves to large projects with fewer interruptions and use their time off for appointments they would normally schedule during working hours.
What Are The Potential Problems?
Working longer hours can be physically and mentally challenging, and it may be difficult to sustain. An extra day off, may not make up for the additional work burden.
If the compressed schedule is too much for your team, it can also lower their morale. It may also be more difficult to find childcare or transportation if your employees rely on public transportation. Plus, they must still do all the things they’d normally do before and after work, but in less time.
Additionally, managers or supervisors need to be available for those who work a compressed workweek.
According to the Department of Labor, over one quarter of all full-time employees now have a flexible schedule. If the idea appeals to you, explore your options, and pitch your proposition to your employer. It is possible to overcome the obstacles.
Employers needn’t worry about the payroll complications of a compressed workweek either. Charlotte Payroll caters to businesses in the Greater Charlotte area and we can simplify backend processes so the transition to a compressed workweek goes smoothly. Contact us – we’re here to help.
