93% of Canadians are interested in adopting a four-day workweek model, according to a study by job search platform Talent.com.
57% of those who responded to the survey said they would put the model in their top three benefits that they would like their employer to offer. Next was insurance (52%) and choosing their own working hours (47%).
44% reported that they are not equally productive on each day of the week and said they do not want to work more than 36 hours per week. Half of those surveyed said they were not interested in switching to a format where they would work four 10-hour shifts.
The top reasons for a four-day workweek included decreasing feelings of burnout, stress and being overwhelmed. Many also said a shorter week would improve work-life balance.
80% of respondents said they have concerns when it comes to implementing the shorter model with nearly half who are worried about being paid less even if they worked less. More than a third believe they would end up working longer days and that they would be asked to work overtime without extra pay.
Of the reasons Canadians support a four-day work week, having extra free time followed by time to attend personal appointments and complete household chores topped the list.
“Successful pilot programs for a four-day work week have been implemented in markets around the world, resulting in improved productivity,” said Robert Boersma, Head of Sales Strategy at Talent.com. “Canadians too are showing an increased desire for the concept.”
A Toronto-based arts education charity called VIBE Arts is implementing a four-day workweek for their employees starting on May 1 while still receiving full-time pay.
