While Searching for a Balance Between Productivity and Mental Health, Generation Z Is Clear on One Thing: They Want a Four-Day Workweek

Amid the debate on the reduction of the working day and its effects, data consultancy Generation Lab and CNBC recently conducted a study on Generation Z’s preferences in the workplace. Specifically, the survey asked them whether they would prefer to work remotely or return to an on-site model with reduced workdays or four-day workweek models. The result was clear: Of the 1,033 U.S. 18-25-year-old participants, 81% responded that attending the office and reducing workdays would improve productivity.

They were educated remotely and are only starting to get to know the office now. The older members of Generation Z have completed their education remotely and are beginning to enter the workforce, giving them a different perspective on workplace dynamics.

Survey data reveals that only 8% of young people in the U.S. entering the workforce have the option to work remotely. This leaves them looking for ways to balance their career with their personal well-being. Additionally, 67% percent of these young people enter the workforce by working on-site.

Balancing productivity and well-being. The study also found that 60% of young people believe their productivity and learning improve when working from offices, while 40% prefer working from home.

When it comes to finding a balance between improving their skills and mental well-being, 81% of the young people surveyed believe that working four days a week would increase their productivity and quality of life. In contrast, only 19% of participants believe that going to the office five days a week improves their productivity.

Working more doesn’t equal working better. Several studies on four-day workweek models support the views of the Generation Lab and CNBC survey participants.

According to data from these studies, companies saw improvements in productivity by optimizing processes and ways of working, while employees reported lower levels of stress, improved well-being, and increased commitment and motivation to the company.

Some U.S. companies have already tried the four-day workweek. According to KPMG’s 2024 U.S. CEO Outlook Pulse Survey, 30% of large U.S. organizations are experimenting with new working models, including the four-day workweek.

For instance, coaching company Exos began a four-day workweek trial in May 2023. Six months later, the experiment proved to have had significant benefits for the employees, who said they were happier and more productive. In fact, 91% of workers believed they were more efficient by working one fewer day a week.

Image | Annie Spratt