81% OF U.S. WORKERS WANT A 4-DAY WORK WEEK

Matt Case - August 25th 

As the pandemic reshaped the dynamics of workplaces, offering a glimpse into remote work and flexible schedules to employees nationwide, the appeal for such arrangements continues to hold strong. A recent Bankrate survey, capturing insights from over 2,300 full-time workers and job seekers, underscores this trend, revealing that a striking 81% of respondents lean towards a condensed four-day work week, favoring it over the conventional five-day grind.

The survey delved into the attitudes of participants regarding adaptable work structures, illuminating their willingness to embrace change. A resounding 89% of those advocating for the four-day work week expressed their preparedness to make compromises in order to transition to this arrangement.

Workers want flexibility, especially a four-day work week, according to a new survey from Bankrate. Photo: Getty Images

Within this group, a significant 54% indicated their readiness to extend their daily work hours. Furthermore, a considerable 37% displayed openness to exploring different job roles or even industries. Notably, 27% signaled their willingness to augment their in-person presence at the workplace, while an intriguing 10% stated their acceptance of a reduction in compensation.

The survey also shed light on the growing allure of remote work. Over 40% of full-time employees articulated their inclination to switch jobs if remote work options were available. Impressively, a resounding 78% of respondents conveyed their willingness to make sacrifices to secure remote work opportunities. Such sacrifices encompassed transitioning to new jobs or industries (42%), embracing off-peak hours such as evenings or weekends (35%), embracing roles that may diverge from their passion (28%), and considering salary reductions (15%).

Gender-based distinctions surfaced prominently in the survey results. A notable 92% of women, compared to 87% of men, voiced support for flexible scheduling options, encompassing the four-day work week, hybrid arrangements, and remote work.

Over half (54%) would be willing to work longer hours, 37% would be willing to change jobs or industries Photo: Getty Images 

Beyond the allure of a shorter work week, the survey unveiled significant backing for hybrid schedules. These schedules combine in-office work with remote days. Approximately 68% of full-time workers endorsed this hybrid model, signifying a growing receptivity to flexible work structures.

The survey findings mirror a profound shift in workplace preferences, as employees seek heightened autonomy over their work-life equilibrium and explore novel paradigms beyond traditional office routines. This emerging sentiment underscores the evolving landscape of work in the wake of the pandemic, marking a transformative trajectory.