Why 92% of Young People Want a 4-Day Workweek and the Sacrifices They’re Willing to Make
The Desire for a 4-Day Workweek
The traditional five-day workweek, which has been the standard in the United States since the Great Depression, may be on its way out. According to a recent Bankrate survey reported by CNBC Make It, a staggering 92% of young people expressed a strong desire for a four-day workweek. This desire is so strong that they are willing to make significant sacrifices in their professional lives to attain it.
Trading Remote Work for Longer Weekends
One of the major sacrifices young professionals are willing to make is giving up remote and hybrid work schedules. In fact, one-third of Gen Z and millennial workers stated they would be willing to transition to a fully in-person role if it meant they could have an extra day added to their weekends, according to the survey. This willingness might come as a surprise, as the debate surrounding return-to-office policies has been quite divisive. Despite some CEOs and senior leaders advocating for more in-person workdays, employees who have experienced the benefits of remote and hybrid roles may have different preferences.
Interestingly, a recent Deloitte report revealed that 75% of Gen Z and millennial workers in remote or hybrid positions would actually consider finding a new job if their employer required them to work on-site full-time. Clearly, the allure of flexible work arrangements is strong among these younger generations.
The Sacrifices for a Shorter Workweek
The desire for a shorter workweek is so strong among Gen Z and millennials that they are willing to make additional sacrifices to achieve it. The Bankrate survey found that 48% of respondents would be willing to work longer hours, 35% would be open to changing jobs or companies, 27% would consider working weekends or evenings, and 13% would even be willing to take a pay cut.
Interestingly, this desire is not limited to just younger workers. Many Gen X and baby boomer employees are also interested in a four-day workweek, with 61% of them stating that they would be willing to work longer hours to make it a reality, according to the same survey.
