
About me – Shamayun Miah
Shamayun Miah is a management consultant in the technology sector. He has been involved in the technology sector for over twenty years, helping his clients shape new propositions, solve enterprise-wide business challenges, and implement new technology platforms. He has gained wide-ranging experience around disruptive technologies, such as artificial intelligence, data, cloud computing, automation, and robotics. He has supported clients in their journey to define new business models to take advantage of market disruption and emerging tech such as Blockchain.
Here is a Recent Blog On The Future Of Work & Four-Day Working Week

What are the benefits?
Those who advocate for the four-day workweek have argued that when it is implemented correctly, employee satisfaction increases and, at the same time, employee productivity.
Perpetual Guardian, a New Zealand based company, carried out a study of a four-day week. The study revealed that the employees working a four-day week maintained the same level of productivity, and the overall level of employee job satisfaction had increased. There was also evidence of better work-life balance, team collaboration, and increased employee loyalty. The study found that employees experienced a decrease in stress level by over 30%.
The four-day workweek has several benefits for both companies and employees. It can lead to lower costs for companies due to a reduction in overhead and increased employee morale. Employees are happier when they aren’t overworked, leading to higher productivity and less burnout. In general, employees will have more time for family and personal activities if their workweek is shortened, explains Shamayun.
The Government Equalities Office research on Gender Pay Gap has shown that approximately two million people in the United Kingdom are not in employment due to childcare responsibility; of this, over 80% are women. A four-day week would support many parents to return to work, and in some cases, both parents can share the childcare by having different days off during the four-day week.
A four-day workweek can also be beneficial for companies. When employees are working fewer days, the company is using its resources more efficiently. This can lead to a decrease in overhead costs and an increase in productivity.
When employees are working fewer days, they have more time to relax and recharge. This can lead to higher morale and a decrease in stress levels. Employees may also have more time to pursue other interests or spend time with their families. This lessens attrition rates.
In addition, the benefits of a four-day workweek may extend beyond the individual employee. There is evidence to suggest that a four-day workweek can lead to a reduction in carbon emissions. Early study has shown that countries with shorter working hours have less carbon footprint. Therefore, there is some evidence that shortening to a four-day week will significantly impact the environment. Employees will need to travel less, and there will be a reduction in office space and energy consumption.
Planning for Success
A four-day workweek is a new concept, accelerated due to the pandemic and advancements in remote working technology.
If you consider a four-day workweek, it is essential to consult with your employees and your customers. Also, be aware that implementing a four-day week can be expensive. You will need to redesign your processes, establish a support structure, and sometimes create a new operating model and ways of working. Also, employees and employers will require new technology both at home and at the office for remote working. Many employees do not have adequate WIFI at home, and companies may need to support employees here. The business change management process also needs to be thought through carefully.
Although there are several benefits to a four-day workweek, you should consider your company’s specific product or service before deciding to go forward with it. The needs and wants of every customer are different, so there may be scenarios where a four-day workweek doesn’t make sense for your company.
If you do decide to implement a four-day workweek, you must communicate the changes clearly and thoroughly. Be patient with your employees as they get used to the new schedule. Communicate often and check in regularly, so employees don’t feel like they are in the dark about company policies, explains Shamayun Miah.
Are there any drawbacks?
How can I get started?
If you’re interested in implementing a four-day workweek in your business, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, talk to your employees about it and get their input. Make sure they understand the benefits and are on board with the change; make sure that your new four-day week can support your business demand, your systems can manage the four-day week. Also, relook at your operating model to explore what changes are required.
Next, make a plan for how the four-day workweek will be implemented. This should include what hours employees will work and which days they will take off; if you have a union or work council, get them involved early in the process. Finally, communicate this plan to all employees and get feedback. It is advisable to run small pilot projects in a region or division to assess the impact on the business and your employees. Share the feedback and lessons learned from this pilot across your company.