Which of the following is an example of a compressed workweek in the united states?
|
Working a four-day or short week might sound like a pretty good deal. Working a shorter week provides you with a longer weekend and more of a chance to recharge for your next week at work. However, those who hear “four-day week” may not know that most people working this work schedule are working a compressed workweek. Show
A compressed workweek doesn’t mean that individuals are working less. It means that they are squeezing in the standard 35 to 40-hour workweek into a shorter timeframe. This model is something that many people find to be a more sustainable and realistic schedule for their needs, especially if they have many personal responsibilities or dependents they need to care for and manage. Of course, a compressed workweek comes with its own pros and cons, and it’s essential to understand them before you have a conversation with your employer to discuss if this is truly an option for you. Below we discuss what a compressed work schedule is and what you need to know. Key Takeaways:
What Is a Compressed Work Week Schedule?A compressed work schedule is a schedule that allows employees to work the traditional 35-40 hours in a shorter number of days. The conventional workweek is five days long, Monday through Friday, with employees usually working core hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with lunch in the middle. A compressed work schedule can vary, depending on what you negotiate with your employer. For example, someone who is working full time can work four 10-hour days instead of the usual 8-hour days. An employee could choose to spread those work hours out how they see fit, some days being longer than others. For part-time employees, it could be a little tricker, but not unrealistic. Additionally, employees could choose to work 9 hours per day and then take off one full day every other week. Certain professions, such as nursing or firefighting, may require 24-hour shift coverage and ask their employees to regularly work three 12-hour days, with four weekdays off. It all depends on what you are willing to do with your schedule and if your employer is willing to work with you on your hours. Chances are that if you can figure out how to make it work for you, your employer will be on board for a system that ultimately makes you more productive in your work. The Benefits of a Compressed Work ScheduleThere are a few different benefits to operating on a compressed work schedule. Having more time off work opens up a variety of possibilities for your personal life that may not be realistic on a typical five-day schedule.
Considerations for Negotiating This Type of Work ScheduleAlthough there are plenty of benefits, the following list highlights other things to consider when you’re thinking about implementing a compressed work schedule:
How to Implement a Compressed Work Arrangement SuccessfullyDepending on your company, you may need to submit a formal request for a compressed workweek. If you’re part of a company that offers a compressed workweek as part of their regular benefits, implementing this might be more simple, especially if there is already a process in place. However, the chances are that your employer doesn’t offer this a typical perk for employees. You can make the business case for this type of arrangement by documenting how you perform your job and proving how you can complete your goals in a shorter work cycle. If you explain that your productivity increases based on a compressed workweek, you can sell your company on this. To successfully implement this type of arrangement, the employee and department they are part of should work on a few things. First, pre-approve the hours to be worked, if the employee is an hourly wage employee. To avoid overtime concerns, the employee and department should figure out what kind of time off is necessary in these cases. Final ThoughtsCompressed schedules are beneficial for both the employee and the employer. It provides employees with crucial time off and extends the operational hours of the business simultaneously. For employers who are considering this type of schedule for their employees, it’s easy to track their productivity from the start of the arrangement and keep your eye on it as time goes on to ensure efficiency does not decrease. You may be surprised at how efficient your employees can be on a compressed workweek schedule.
Never miss an opportunity that’s right for you. What would be a common example of a compressed work week quizlet?Most common options in a compressed workweek are: four 10-hour days, three 12-hour days, or a week of five 9-hour days followed by a week of four 9-hour days.
Which of the following is the standard workweek in the USA?A 40-hour work week (or workweek) is the accepted standard in today's workplace.
Why does America work 5 days a week?The five-day, 40-hour workweek became part of American labor law partly due to Henry Ford. In 1926, the founder of the Ford Motor Company took his six-day-a-week operation down to five days per week, with no changes in employee compensation.
What is your opinion on the compressed workweek?One perk that may help your business attract and keep top talent is the flexibility to work a compressed schedule. A compressed work schedule allows employees to work a full 40-hour week in fewer than the typical five days. A shorter workweek can help increase productivity and give employees more personal time.
|
