Research published today has revealed significant demand for a four-day work week in the UK.
The survey found that nearly a third of Brits are actively looking for a four-day work week in 2022 or have already agreed to one with their current employer.
Demand for a four-day work week is being driven by the under 45s, with many prepared to quit to find a role that offers it. The data shows this most strongly among 35-44 year olds, with almost a fifth of them preparing to quit their job next year to find a new role that offers it, while another 16.1% plan to ask their current employer for a four-day work week in 2022.
This attitude is shared by younger workers with 18% of 25-34 year olds, and 15.3% of 16-24 year olds, also prepared to quit their job to find one offering a four-day work week. A further 15.6% of 25-34 year olds, and 14.5% of 16-24 year olds, plan to ask their employer for a four-day work week next year.
Zeb Evans, CEO at ClickUp, who commissioned the survey, said: “Businesses need to get ready for the four-day work week as rising numbers of people demand it. It won’t be right for all people or all businesses, but those wanting to explore the idea can start by looking at their productivity. There are huge gains to be made by making processes more efficient, improving knowledge sharing and removing duplication of effort. This can have a huge effect and can be used to offset any loss in working hours. Companies where a four-day work isn’t the right choice may choose to reinvest this extra productivity back into their businesses, which could be critical in high-growth and highly competitive sectors.”
The research found almost equal levels of support for the four-day work week among 16-24 year olds (71%of whom are in support), 25-34 year olds (71.9%), and 35-44 year olds (71%). Support drops substantially for 45-54 year-olds (51.5%) and even further for those aged over 55 (20.3%).
