It seems like a counterintuitive question: how can employees get more done in less time?

Surely, if we want employees to be productive, we need to give them more time to work, not less?

But recent studies have shown that shorter working hours can lead to increased productivity.

In one study, Microsoft found that when they reduced their employees’ working week from five days to four, they saw a 40% increase in productivity.

There are a few reasons why this might be the case.

First of all, shorter working hours can lead to improved work/life balance. This is important because, when employees feel like they have a good work/life balance, they are less likely to experience burnout.

And when employees are less likely to experience burnout, they are more likely to be productive.

Another reason why shorter working hours can lead to increased productivity is that it gives employees more time to recover from work-related stress.

This is important because, when employees are well-rested, they are better able to focus and be productive.

So, if you’re looking for ways to increase employee productivity, you might want to consider reducing the number of hours that your employees work each week.

Why working fewer hours makes employees more productive

There's a growing body of evidence that suggests that employees are more productive when they work fewer hours.

In one study, for example, researchers found that nurses who worked shorter shifts were less likely to make errors than those who worked longer shifts.

And it's not just nurses: other studies have found that shorter work weeks can lead to increased productivity in a range of different occupations, from retail workers to software developers.

There are several reasons why shorter work weeks might lead to increased productivity.

For one thing, employees who work fewer hours are often better rested and have more time to recover from the physical and mental demands of their job.

They're also more likely to have a better work-life balance, which can lead to increased motivation and focus at work.

Of course, there are some downsides to shorter work weeks—employees may have less time to complete tasks, and there may be less opportunity for collaboration.

But on the whole, the evidence suggests that shorter work weeks can lead to increased productivity.

The UK trialing a 4-day work week

The UK government is currently trialing a 4-day work week for its employees.

The trial is taking place across 10 government departments and will last for 12 months. The trial aims to see whether shorter working hours can lead to increased productivity.

So far, the results of the trial have been positive. One department reported a 5% increase in productivity, while another reported a 3% increase.

The trial is still ongoing, but if the results continue to be positive, it’s possible that the 4-day work week could become permanent for all UK government employees.

This would be a major change, but it could have a big impact on employee productivity. So, it’s something to keep an eye on.

So, if you're looking for ways to increase productivity in your workplace, shorter work weeks might be worth exploring.

They could lead to more rested, motivated, and focused employees – and that could be good for your bottom line.

How to be more productive with fewer working hours

If you’re looking for ways to increase employee productivity, you might want to consider reducing the number of hours that your employees work each week.

Shorter working hours can lead to improved work/life balance. Which is important.

When employees feel like they have a good work/life balance, they are less likely to experience burnout. And when employees are less likely to experience burnout, they are more likely to be productive.

Another reason why shorter working hours can lead to increased productivity is that it gives employees more time to recover from work-related stress.

Being well-rested allows employees to better focus and be productive.

So, if you’re looking for ways to increase employee productivity, you might want to consider reducing the number of hours that your employees work each week.

Is it possible to be more productive by working less?

It is.

A lot of people assume that to be productive, you have to work long hours. But that's not necessarily true.

There are plenty of studies that show that working fewer hours can lead to more productivity.

One study, for example, found that teams become more productive when their hours are shorter.

The study found that when people work fewer hours, they have more energy and focus, and they're less likely to make mistakes.

So, if you're looking to be more productive, one of the best things you can do is work less. You'll have more energy, focus, and motivation, and you'll be less likely to make mistakes.

Read more on destructive productivity is serious and how to Avoid it?

Tips to help employees successfully work fewer hours and be more productive

Okay, let’s now take a closer look at exactly what your employees can do to work fewer hours and be more productive. We’ve already established how effective it can be. But what exactly are those companies doing to make the 4-day week productive and profitable?

We’ve broken it down into 7 straightforward tips that can help your employees work 4 days, and your business profit from it.

1. Set clear boundaries between work and personal life

When you're trying to be more productive, it's important to set clear boundaries between work and personal life.

Otherwise, you'll never truly be able to relax and recharge. One way to do this is to establish consistent work hours and stick to them as much as possible.

Let your friends and family know when you're working and make sure to keep personal errands or appointments during non-work hours.

2. Take regular breaks

It may seem counterintuitive, but taking regular breaks can help you be more productive.

When you take a break, it gives your mind a chance to rest and rejuvenate. This can help you come back to your work with fresh energy and new ideas. Try to take a break at least once every hour, even if it's just for a few minutes. Get up and stretch, take a walk, or grab a quick snack.

Read more on how to take a break productively

3. Set realistic goals

One of the biggest productivity killers is setting unrealistic goals.

When you set your sights too high, you're more likely to get discouraged and give up when you don't meet your expectations.

It's important to be ambitious, but make sure your goals are achievable. Break down big projects into smaller tasks that you can complete in manageable chunks of time.

4. Learn to say no

In today's 24/7 world, it's easy to feel like we have to say yes to everything.

But when you're trying to be more productive, it's important to learn to say no. Otherwise, you'll quickly become overwhelmed and bogged down by too many commitments.

If you're asked to do something that doesn't fit into your schedule or goals, don't be afraid to politely decline.

5. Get rid of distractions

To be productive, you need to be able to focus on your work.

But in our constantly connected world, it's easy to get distracted by things like social media, email, and text messages. If you're finding it difficult to stay focused, try disconnecting from the internet or putting your phone on silent.

You can also try working in a place where you won't be disturbed, like a library or coffee shop.

6. Simplify your workspace

A cluttered workspace can be a big productivity killer.

When you're trying to focus on your work, it's helpful to have a clean and organized space to do it in. Take some time to declutter your desk and get rid of any unnecessary paperwork or knick-knacks.

You should also make sure to have all the supplies and tools you need within easy reach.

7. Take care of yourself

To be productive, it's important to take care of yourself both mentally and physically.

Make sure to get enough sleep, eat healthy meals, and exercise regularly. It's also important to take breaks when you're feeling overwhelmed or stressed.

If you're not taking care of yourself, it will be difficult to focus on your work and be productive.

Fewer working hours, more productive

The current six-month testing of a 4-day work week in the UK is one everyone will watch eagerly. After all, employees are being paid the same as if they were working a 5-day week.

So, now we have to wait and see if this is a profitable move for businesses. And also, whether it works as well as it’s supposed to for employees. Because let’s face it, they now have to do 5 days of work in 4.

This makes one wonder if there won’t be a rise in project management software demand to help streamline productivity, improve communication and collaboration, and help ensure projects are completed on time, on budget, and to client specification.