With the cost of living crisis driven by seemingly runaway inflation, productivity is seen by many as one potential remedy. In economic theory, increasing productivity is part of a corrective mechanism that can help to arrest inflation.
If increasing productivity is the aim, then for many, reducing the working week by 20% may seem to be a counter-intuitive step. However, that’s just what is happening as companies around the world undertake trials of a four-day work week, with Belgium now even offering it as a permanent option to employees who want it.
Findings from Microsoft Japan in 2019 saw a 40% increase in productivity. In Australia and across APAC the idea has already been given wings too. The progressive thinking New Zealand Prime Minister, Jacinta Arden, has already suggested companies roll out four-day working weeks to jump-start post-pandemic economic activity.
Last week saw the UK initiate the world’s biggest trial so far, with more than 3,300 workers at 70 UK companies, ranging from a fish & chips fast food outlet to large financial firms, start working a four-day week with no loss of pay.
This is certainly going to drive some conversations between recruiters and their clients! Key issues and challenges might include:
The world is evolving at a seemingly faster pace than ever. Technology is at the forefront of change, pushing forward with innovation and increasing efficiency. ETZ is the RecTech partner of choice, helping agencies to navigate the pitfalls and obtain excellent value from technology.
ETZ’s leading timesheet, invoicing and payment solution, and complementary Caspian business intelligence platform are both purpose-built for the recruitment industry. To find out more call us on +61 (0) 405 458 821 or book a demo.
Global temp and contract market to value $130 billion by 2030 For many businesses and organisations, the business case for...
Read moreRegulation could stifle commercial development Most would agree that we cannot let technologies which herald great change be allowed to...
Read moreFlexibility of matching resource with demand The latest employment data from some countries reflects that companies are not committing to...
Read more