13 Oct 2022 | Filomena Kaguako

What we know about the four-day work week, so far

Partner content: Mediatel Jobs

Over 3,000 employees across 70 UK companies have surpassed the halfway point of a six-month trial for a four-day work week. The pilot project was launched by not-for-profit community 4 Day Week Global in collaboration with research organisation Autonomy, and researchers from Cambridge University, Boston College, and Oxford University.

The six-month initiative, which is said to be the biggest four-day work week trial in the world, is due to end this November. Based on the 100:80:100 model – 100% pay for 80% of the time and 100% productivity – companies all over the UK are participating.

Some of the media organisations taking part in the UK pilot include London and Leeds-based digital marketing agency Trio Media, London-based communications consultancy The Story Mob, and creative hub Boom Studio in Northern Ireland.

Perks

So what have some of the main perks been for employees working four days a week with no pay reductions?

According to a survey conducted by 4 Day Week Global around the halfway point of the pilot programme, squeezing five days of work into a four-day week didn’t stifle productivity levels.

The survey found that 46% of respondents reported no changes to productivity, 34% said that it “improved slightly”, while 15% said it has “improved significantly”.

The same study also found that 86%t of respondents said they would be “extremely likely” and or “likely” to continue with a compressed work week after the trial period comes to its natural end. But what are some of the less appealing aspects of this groundbreaking trial?

As it stands, there is still some ongoing debate about how a four-day week can impact a business and the work style of a company. HR leaders and managers will have to bear the responsibility of deciding on which day of the week to cut, while employees will have to evaluate time management skills to complete their work load in less time while maintaining productivity.

However, the six-month trial has been overwhelmingly positive, as 88% of those who participated in the 4 Day Week Global survey said that the four-day week is working “well” for their business.

Jobs within the media industry in particular can have hectic schedules, and the lines between work and home life tend to be quite blurred. So if you’re looking for a role that has a healthier work-life balance, or if you’re just in need of a change because you feel you’re stuck in a bit of a rut, maybe it’s time to start exploring other options.

There are plenty of job opportunities available on the Mediatel Job Board. In the meantime, here are three companies currently looking for new talent.

ITV, Manchester and London

The longest-running commercial network in the UK is hiring. The public broadcast television network reaches millions of people everyday through various mediums. With roles in HR and project management, the public broadcaster is committed to being the most flexible employer in the industry, offering hybrid roles and remote working.

Some of the perks of working with ITV include life assurance cover, an opportunity to buy ITV shares, and pension. The company also offers five weeks’ holiday on top of public holidays and competitive salaries. Tempted? Search for your dream job here.

Sky, Leeds

Leading media and entertainment company Sky has a wide range of job offers for those looking to work in an inclusive workplace with plenty of opportunities for career growth. As well as working for an organisation that is based in the heart of Leeds, the benefits of working for Sky include its cycle to work scheme, discounts on external gyms, and private healthcare.

After 31 years in business, the entertainment company is an industry stalwart. Explore the wide range of opportunities available at Sky.

Virgin Media, United Kingdom

Telecommunications company Virgin Media has dozens of job opportunities for those who have an interest in producing entertainment, news, or sport. The entertainment and communications business has some entry-level roles for students looking to kick start their careers, as well as more senior positions.

Virgin Media promotes a company culture that recognises the importance of mental health as it is committed to making mental health awareness and wellbeing a part of the regular conversations in the workplace. If you’d like to stamp out the stigma around mental health, while diversifying your skills in a role that you love, you can discover the opportunities currently on offer at Virgin Media.