The results of the four-day work week trial in South Africa are in, and they show a resounding success among participating companies.
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Despite initial scepticism, the four-day week trial was the first of its kind in a developing country – and the first in Africa.
It has proven to be beneficial to both employees and employers.
The six-month study, which began in March 2023, has been completed by 26 companies. It was organised by 4 Day Week Global in partnership with 4 Day Week South Africa NPC and academics from Boston College and Stellenbosch Business School.
The study’s findings, released on Thursday, revealed that businesses rated their experience an eight out of ten, with 92% planning to continue or considering the four-day week.
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‘Employees value their time off so much that 51% say they would need a 21 to 50% pay increase to revert to a five-day week at their next job. Moreover, 13% report that no amount of money would induce them to return to the five-day formula,’ reported 4 Day Week SA.
Corporations gave the trial an eight out of ten.
Productivity received a 7.5 (as determined by business executives).
The score for the impact on corporate performance was 7.1.
The firms’ overall impact was 7.7.
The impact on recruiting and the potential to attract new talent was rated 7.9 out of 10.
During the trial, the company’s sales increased by 10.5% on average.
Resignation rates fell by 11% when compared to the same period last year.
Absenteeism was reduced by 9%.
The majority of businesses (92%) are either maintaining or considering a four-day work week.
Those advocating for such a work structure argue that it will increase employee productivity and improve workers’ mental health.
Almost half of the participants (49%) said their work ability had improved, and 58% said their creativity had improved.
Around 13% of respondents said that no amount of money could persuade them to return to a five-day schedule, while more than half (51%) said that a pay increase of 21 to 50% would be required to return to a five-day schedule at their next job.
Approximately 85% of employees prefer to keep the four-day work week.
57% of those who took part reported a reduction in burnout.
Approximately 36% of those who participated reported a reduction in fatigue or weariness.
Around 35% of people increased their exercise time.
One in three of those polled said they had fewer sleep problems.
One-third of those polled reported a decrease in job stress.
Roughly 47% of participants said their work-life balance had improved.
Around 59% of participants reported increased satisfaction with time management.
Approximately 35% of participants said their mental health wellbeing had improved.
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