While more flexible ways of working have been introduced over recent years, such as hybrid policies and adjustable hours around a core working day, the concept of a four-day workweek has remained an extra ordinary structure. When we look at the benefits of the four-day workweek, and examples of companies that have made it work, it’s a surprise that more aren’t opting to reap the rewards.
Condensing the ‘normal’ working week into fewer days is reported to boost productivity, efficiency, and employee satisfaction, so why aren’t more companies seeing it as a viable option?
Here at Public Practice Recruitment Ltd, we’re working with a highly regarded, multi-office accountancy practice that has successfully rolled out a four-day workweek and is seeing increased employee retention and a significant level of engagement during recruitment drives. So, let’s explore some of the benefits your firm can take advantage of too:
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- Productivity is power: Companies that have tested the four-day workweek have reported a surprising boost in productivity levels, where the reduced time online drives employees to make the most of their working hours. This enhanced focus improves prioritisation and reduces procrastination, ultimately making service delivery more financially efficient.
- Light that creative spark: The psychology behind creativity can be surprising, as it’s thought that the creative side of our brain performs better when under pressure or working to a tighter deadline. This phenomenon rings true when considering a four-day working week. Those condensing five days of work into four tend to not only make better use of their time but also generate better ideas and a higher quality of work within that time.
- Happy staff, happy life: We all know that hybrid and flexible working offers a better work / life balance for employees and improves overall job satisfaction, so you can imagine how a four-day workweek could benefit staff. With an extra day off, employees have more time to rest, recharge, and nurture their personal lives, and this additional free time can help to alleviate stress and burnout.
- Be a talent magnet: Embracing a four-day workweek can better position your firm to attract and retain top talent. We’ve seen this first hand when recruiting for a leading firm that has implemented this modern way of working, where engagement with their job adverts is through the roof! The prospect of a shorter working week can serve as a compelling incentive for prospective employees in a highly competitive hiring landscape, demonstrating the firm’s commitment to valuing work-life balance.
- Save the planet and the pennies: The environmental and economic benefits for a shorter working week might not the be the first that spring to mind, but cutting out just one day per week can drastically reduce things like the time, cost, and pollution of commuting, and the cost and resources expended running an office. Cut costs and your carbon footprint with a four-day workweek!
The shift to a four-day workweek represents a forward-thinking approach that aligns with the evolving needs of today’s workforce. By recognising the benefits, firms can pave the way for not only a happier and more productive work environment, but a more efficient and financially prosperous business model.
In fact, around 100 UK companies now permanently operate with a four-day workweek and research into this approach reports that employee stress levels dropped by 45% while maintaining productivity. So, when we consider that 36.8 million working days are lost in the UK each year due to stress, costing the economy £4bn, the four-day workweek appears to be a solution that can benefit all.
Whilst a four-day workweek is still relatively unchartered waters for public practice accounting, we’ve seen a significant interest from candidates who are keen to work with forward-thinking firms that adopt modern ways of working.
The working environment within practice has rapidly changed over recent years, propelled by the pandemic’s impact on the business landscape, and this evolution isn’t slowing down. From new technologies to more flexibility, firms wanting to be at the forefront of talent retention and attraction need to embrace these modern approaches. Whilst we see some firms stuck in their traditional ways, we’re working with some truly inspirational teams that are trailblazers for employee benefits. If your firm needs a push to reach its potential, the PPR team is here to help.
Managing Director, Garry Howling
Does your firm have live roles to fill? Or would your team benefit from an expert sounding board for your recruitment needs? As experts in public practice recruitment across the UK, we know a thing or two about what candidates really want from employers, and as such we can help your firm become an attractive option for truly talented accountants.
Don’t hesitate to contact the team today.
