How to Actually Execute a 4-Day Workweek," by Josh Bersin

Friday 22 Dec 2023

Making a 4-Day Workweek Work for Your Team

A growing body of evidence suggests that a four-day workweek is not only feasible, but also potentially advantageous when it comes to employee well-being and retention. But what does this new approach to work actually require from managers? You need to streamline operations, remove administrative burdens, and prioritize high-impact work. Here’s how.

(1) Clearly define the work that matters. Lay out clear team-level goals and identify the work that directly contributes to those priorities.

(2) Run a meeting audit. Meetings are often scrutinized as unproductive time. Work with your team to cancel recurring meetings that could really be “just an email” or to shorten meetings that could be half an hour instead of a full hour.

 (3) Allow employees to operate to the full extent of their education and training. Many employees are bogged down with administrative or menial tasks that inhibit them from focusing on high-priority responsibilities. Look for ways to streamline, automate, or outsource that work. 

(4) Embrace asynchronous communication. To maintain employee focus and boost efficiency, establish a clear understanding of what requires real-time dialogue and why.

This tip is adapted from "How to Actually Execute a 4-Day Workweek," by Josh Bersin