The 4-Day Workweek in the U.S.: Is It the Future for Small Businesses?
The 4-Day Workweek in the U.S.: Is It the Future for Small Businesses?
For years, the standard five-day workweek has been the foundation of American business. But in recent years, there’s been growing interest in a 4-day workweek (4DWW) as an alternative that could boost productivity, improve employee satisfaction, and even reduce costs. A typical 4-day workweek reduces total working hours to 28 to 32 hours per week across four days, without cutting pay. However, some businesses choose to keep the standard 40-hour workweek but condense it into four 10-hour days, a model known as a compressed workweek. While both approaches reduce the number of working days, only the former is considered a true 4-day workweek since it involves fewer hours worked overall, rather than just redistributing them.
So, how popular is this idea? What do the latest polls say? And how are businesses that have adopted a 4-day workweek faring? Let’s take a deep dive into the growing trend, explore real-world feedback, and see what this shift could mean for small businesses in the U.S.
The Growing Popularity of the 4-Day Workweek
A recent survey by tech.co found that 59% of businesses are open to exploring a four-day workweek, with 18% already taking steps to implement it. This suggests that while traditional work structures are still dominant, many companies recognize the potential benefits of a shorter workweek.
But what do employees think? The data is clear: 56% of employees would rather work a 40-hour work week in 4 days instead of 5 days. (driveresearch.com). Even more striking, 58% would choose a four-day workweek over a pay raise (jake-jorgovan.com). This reflects a significant shift in workplace priorities, as employees increasingly value work-life balance over financial incentives.
The pandemic accelerated this trend, pushing companies to rethink traditional work arrangements. Many found that employees could work remotely or on flexible schedules without sacrificing productivity. This has led to serious discussions about whether a shorter workweek could be a natural next step.
What the Latest Research and Experiments Say
The real question is whether a four-day workweek actually works in practice. Several companies, cities, and even entire countries have experimented with it, and the results have been largely positive:
- Boost in Productivity – A 2021 study by Autonomy found that businesses that adopted a four-day workweek saw productivity increase by 20%. Employees accomplished the same amount of work in less time, thanks to better focus and fewer distractions. (Forbes)
- Happier Employees – Microsoft Japan ran a 4-day workweek pilot program and reported a 40% increase in productivity and happier employees.
- Better Retention and Recruitment – Companies offering a four-day workweek have reported lower turnover rates and stronger job applications. It’s a competitive advantage in today’s talent market.
- Health and Well-being – Studies show that employees on a four-day schedule report lower stress levels, improved mental health, and a better work-life balance.
While the benefits sound great, not every company finds it easy to implement. Some industries—especially those reliant on customer-facing roles—struggle with reduced availability. Others find it challenging to maintain the same output in fewer hours.
Challenges and Drawbacks of a 4-Day Workweek
Despite the enthusiasm, the four-day workweek isn’t a perfect solution for every business. Some of the main challenges include:
- Operational Disruptions – Many businesses, especially small ones, worry about reduced coverage. If employees only work four days, will customers be able to get the support they need?
- Not Suitable for All Industries – Businesses in customer service, retail, and healthcare often require full-week coverage, making it harder to transition to a four-day schedule.
- Implementation Costs – Some businesses may need to restructure workflows, invest in automation, or hire additional staff to make up for reduced working hours.
- Client Expectations – If your business works with other companies that operate on a standard five-day schedule, a four-day model may create misalignment in response times and service availability.
Despite these challenges, many companies have successfully implemented the four-day workweek with creative scheduling solutions. Let’s explore how businesses are making it work.
How Small Businesses Can Implement a 4-Day Workweek
If you’re a small business owner considering a shift to a four-day workweek, here are some strategies that can help make the transition smoother:
1. Test It First
Before making permanent changes, run a pilot program for 3–6 months. Measure the impact on productivity, employee satisfaction, and customer service.
2. Use a Rotational System
Instead of closing the business for an entire day, stagger employee schedules so that some work Monday–Thursday while others work Tuesday–Friday. This way, your business remains open five days a week.
3. Automate and Streamline Tasks
Look for ways to automate repetitive tasks and improve efficiency. Investing in the right tools—such as an absence management system like TimeOff.Management—can help keep things organized with fewer working hours.
4. Focus on Output, Not Hours
Rather than requiring employees to work 40 hours in four days, consider reducing total work hours while maintaining the same pay. Companies that have adopted 32-hour workweeks report minimal impact on productivity.
5. Communicate with Customers
If switching to a four-day model, keep clients informed and adjust expectations. Clear communication helps prevent disruptions.
6. Monitor Performance and Adjust
Regularly review key performance metrics to ensure productivity and customer service levels remain high. Adjust schedules or workloads as needed.
Final Thoughts: Is the 4-Day Workweek Right for Your Business?
The shift toward a four-day workweek is gaining momentum, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Small businesses need to weigh the pros and cons, consider operational needs, and test strategies before committing to a permanent change.
For small businesses looking to improve employee satisfaction, productivity, and retention, the four-day workweek is worth considering.
