March 13, 2024

As the four-day week gains traction and sparks conversations worldwide, corporate businesses with hybrid and flexible workplace strategies are exploring the idea of four days over five, with several trials and initiatives launching later this year. 

In this blog, we explore the benefits of the four-day week for corporate businesses and how facilities management teams can support them. 

A happier, more productive workforce

Findings from a recent four-day week trial suggest that this new way of working can lead to a happier, healthier, and more engaged workforce. With an extra day off, employees can experience reduced stress, improved work-life balance, and potentially more energy to dedicate to their work during the shortened week. This often translates to increased productivity and a boost to overall employee satisfaction. 

An effective facilities management service delivery can support businesses looking to boost engagement through a four-day week by ensuring that employees have a positive experience when they are in the office. At Anabas, we employ floor captains who make sure that each employee has a comfortable and productive experience in the office. They ensure that the hard and soft FM provisions are operating effectively and are the daily point of contact for employees who require support in the office. The role has become exponentially more important in the hybrid world and for organisations implementing a condensed workweek.

Boosting creativity and innovation among employees

Employees may experience greater mental clarity and renewed focus during working hours with one less day in the office. This can lead to increased creativity and innovative thinking, which can help to improve a business’ overall performance. 

At Anabas, our teams work closely with our clients to support their workplace strategies to create engaging workplaces where employees can attend and carry out their work effectively. This can include incorporating open-plan workspaces for team collaboration, flexible furniture for personalised configurations or soundproof pods for focus or privacy. It also the role of our teams to maintain and manage these spaces and ensure they are comfortable, clean, and as engaging as possible. 

Reducing costs and environmental impact  

Reducing the number of days spent in the workplace could lead to cost savings for your business. Decreased electricity consumption could result in lower energy bills, while savings might also be realised in water usage, food expenses, and office maintenance.

Implementing a four-day workweek could also aid your business in minimising its carbon footprint, thereby contributing to sustainability objectives. Additionally, a four-day working week could lead to a decrease in commuting employees, consequently lowering carbon emissions from both cars and public transport.

The four-day concept presents an exciting possibility for a future of work in the corporate office, that is focused on employee wellbeing and improved productivity. By embracing this change and collaborating with facilities management teams, businesses can unlock the potential benefits of a four-day week. A well-equipped and adaptable facilities management service delivery is vital to navigating this new workplace revolution.