The 5-day work week is a deeply entrenched structure around the globe. But considering the results of Microsoft Japan’s experiment, it may be time to overhaul the system
This August, Microsoft Japan trialed a 4-day work week for its entire workforce, calling the project the “Work-Life Choice Challenge Summer 2019”. Approximately 2300 employees were given 5 Fridays off, with no reduction in salary and no days taken out of their annual leave.
Further, The Mainichi reported that Microsoft Japan also planned to subsidise employees’ family vacations or further education by up to ¥100,000.
“Work a short time, rest well and learn a lot. It’s necessary to have an environment that allows you to feel your purpose in life and make a greater impact at work,” said Microsoft Japan president and CEO Takuya Hirano. “I want employees to think about and experience how they can achieve the same results with 20 percent less working time.”
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