Is a 40-Hour Workweek Outdated?

Once upon a time, a standard workweek consisted of five, eight-hour shifts. This was the norm, and no one questioned it. However, things have changed.

These days, a 40-hour workweek — at least in the traditional sense — has become a bit archaic. Modern employers are switching things up, so it’s time to get with the program. Here’s a look at nontraditional scheduling options other companies are giving their workers.

Work at Your Own Discretion

You invest considerable time and energy into hiring the right people, so you need to trust them. Top talent doesn’t require a structured workday to complete all the items on their to-do list. These employees come into work each day knowing what they need to accomplish, and they won’t leave until their list is complete.

Giving associates the freedom to set their own schedule is a coveted perk that sends the best and brightest candidates to your company in droves. This flexibility allows employees to enjoy a solid work-life balance, which makes them happier and more fulfilled. Some weeks, they’ll work less than 40 hours, but they’ll put in overtime on other occasions, so it all evens out.

Flextime

In most cases, it’s still a 40-hour workweek, but flextime offers a modern twist. Employees set their own start time, allowing them to enjoy a better sense of work-life balance. For example, one person might work from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., while another works from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The work still gets done, and there’s plenty of overlap time to work on group projects, but everyone enjoys the schedule that best fits their life.

Compressed Workweek

At some companies, it doesn’t matter how many days an employee is in the office, as long as they get their work done. A compressed workweek allows people to complete longer shifts in exchange for more days off each week. For example, someone might work four, 10-hour shifts, to get every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday off. This allows employees more freedom to enjoy their personal life, while still putting in a full week of work.

Need help finding automotive talent in Monroe, MI, or distribution workers in Florence, KY? Malone Workforce Solutions wants to help fill every open position on your team the right way. Get in touch today to start your search!

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