The Citizen reports that South African corporates are increasingly contemplating a four-day work week, signifying a shift towards an innovative working model in the corporate landscape as businesses explore strategies to align with their employees’ needs and enhance productivity.
A new Remchannel survey indicates a surge in awareness and positive sentiment among SA corporate companies about implementing a four-day work week model. According to Rene Richter of Remchannel, the survey, conducted among 85 notable corporate companies across various sectors, revealed that despite only a marginal number of firms currently experimenting with the four-day work week, over 80% of the respondents were aware of trials in the SA business community. Various countries, including the UK, New Zealand and Japan, have conducted trials for a four-day work week. The general trend points towards a positive association between a four-day work week and improved employee morale, reduced burnout and maintained or even increased productivity. However, critics argue that it is only feasible for some sectors, particularly service-based industries and could increase pressure and workload during the shortened week. The research also indicated significant challenges in implementing this model. A key barrier identified was the disparity between companies viewing this shift as a cost-reducing measure, potentially involving pay cuts, and employees being unwilling to accept such a reduction.
- Read the full original of the report in the above regard by Ina Opperman at The Citizen
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