Quality Over Quantity – Work Less, Achieve More

At the end of this last year, we decided going into January 24 that we would trial a 4 day week. It’s based around the 100:80:100™ Method – developed by Charlotte Lockhart and Andrew Barnes behind 4 Day Week – Global. Which means 100% of the pay, for 80% of the time, in exchange for 100% of the productivity.

Having already spent the last 6 years operating a 9 day fortnight (every other Friday off) this does not feel like a stretch. This actually only equates to 3.5h per employee less every week but feels like it packs a chunky benefit punch for our team. The difference between a 4 day week and a 9 day fortnight means we are all together, working and collaborating at the same time, rather than splitting the team up on Fridays – which can lead to an anticlimactic end to the week. We believe that 4 days together will boost communication and team morale, and allow everyone to refresh, ready to start again Monday.

In recent years, the concept of a 4 day work week has gained traction as companies and individuals alike seek a healthier work-life balance. A growing body of research suggests that a shorter work week can lead to increased productivity, improved mental health, and enhanced overall well-being. By reducing the time spent in front of a laptop, individuals can better balance their work and personal lives, leading to increased happiness, engagement and motivation, allowing employees to better balance their professional and personal responsibilities.

Trials took place at University of Cambridge, working with academics from Boston College, USA and Autonomy – the world’s leading research organisation on this topic. The trial was organised by 4 Day Week Global alongside the UK’s 4 Day Week Campaign.

Research involving 61 UK organisations found a 20% reduction in working time with no loss of pay led to significant drops in workforce stress and sick days, an increase in worker retention, and a much better work-life balance for most employees – all while ‘key business metrics’ were met.

The idea is simple: work less, achieve more.

From Goram & Vincent’s perspective, we want to focus on quality rather than quantity of hours. Some studies have found that employees can be just as productive, if not more so, when working fewer hours, as it encourages them to be more focused and efficient during their working hours.

As we explore the merits of this approach, it prompts us to reflect on our ways of working, our priorities inside and outside of work and how we continue to service and support our team from the inside, and our clients and partners from the outside.

We haven’t taken this decision lightly. We are an eCommerce agency, and concerns around support when our partners need it are at the forefront of our minds. We believe that with advance planning, keeping to deadlines and strong communications around individual partners’ needs and expectations, plus giving them the reassurance that we are available in emergencies/critical times will create an environment for both our partners and our team to thrive.

If anyone is interested in how we managed the 9 day fortnight or updates into how our 4 day work week is working out, please get in touch.