Short work week in Switzerland: fewer hours, more productivity
A Swiss experiment shows that working fewer hours for the same salary reduces absences and increases employee motivation
Contesto
Experiment in Switzerland An increasing number of Swiss companies are experimenting with a four-day workweek while maintaining the same salary. This approach, aimed at countering the steady rise in sick leave over the past decade, has been tested by an administrative services company operating in Romandy and Zurich. For six months, around forty employees trialed the shorter week, with positive results for both health and productivity. ### How the Experiment Works Each worker had the freedom to choose how to reorganize their time. For example, one employee opted for an extra day off each week while keeping the same salary. 'It's a life-changer,' they enthuse, explaining that this flexibility allows them to 'not waste Saturday' on household chores. 'By moving them to Friday, you have the whole weekend free: it's really cool!' ## Positive Balance Although the staff returned to a 42-hour week at the beginning of April, the experiment's balance is extremely positive. 'We had excellent feedback on the balance between personal and professional quality of life,' states a collaborator. Another adds that 'teams were much more motivated' and that, 'knowing they had less time to complete assigned tasks,' processes were optimized to 'save time,' resulting in a 34-hour workweek instead of 42. The experience required a deep reorganization of work, but the benefits seem to outweigh the challenges. To scientifically analyze the effects of the four-day week, the company is collaborating with the Bern University of Applied Sciences, which has launched the first Swiss study on the subject. The experiment also involves an NGO, a small business, and a bank, all committed to testing the so-called 'short week.' ## Impact on Health and Productivity Veit Halperin, a work organization con...
Dettagli operativi
Implications for cross-border workers The introduction of the four-day workweek in Switzerland could have significant implications for cross-border workers in Ticino. With the reduction in working hours, employees may have more time for personal and family activities, improving their quality of life. This could make the Swiss job market even more attractive to Italian workers. ### Comparisons with the previous situation Before the introduction of the short week, employees worked 42 hours a week. With the new model, many have reduced their hours to 34, maintaining the same salary. This has allowed for better time management and increased efficiency at work. Cross-border workers could benefit from this flexibility, having more time for household chores and family. ## Practical scenarios Imagine a cross-border worker employed by one of the companies that have adopted the short week. This worker could have an extra day off each week, allowing them to spend more time with family in Italy or dedicate time to other personal activities. The reduction in working hours could also lead to a decrease in stress and an improvement in mental health, with long-term benefits for productivity and job satisfaction. ### Procedure for companies Companies interested in experimenting with the short week must collaborate with institutions such as the Bern University of Applied Sciences to scientifically analyze the effects of this reduction in working hours. It is important that companies reorganize work efficiently to optimize processes and maintain productivity. ## Recommended tools For an updated estimate, use the net salary calculator and the CHF-EUR exchange comparator.
Punti chiave
What to do for cross-border workers Cross-border workers employed in Switzerland who are interested in benefiting from the four-day workweek should inform themselves with their employer about the possibility of adopting this modality. It is important to verify if the company is participating in similar experiments or is willing to consider this option. Additionally, workers can consult the Bern University of Applied Sciences to obtain information on ongoing studies and the benefits of the four-day workweek. ### Concrete steps 1. Inform yourself with your employer: Verify if the company is experimenting with the four-day workweek or is willing to consider this option. 2. Consult the Bern University of Applied Sciences: Obtain information on ongoing studies and the benefits of the four-day workweek. 3. Rearrange work: Collaborate with your employer to optimize processes and maintain productivity with fewer working hours. 4. Monitor results: Evaluate the benefits of the four-day workweek in terms of health, motivation, and productivity. ### Useful tools For cross-border workers who wish to calculate their net salary in Switzerland, you can use the salary calculator available on the site. This tool allows you to obtain an accurate estimate of your net income after tax and social security deductions. ### Conclusion The four-day workweek represents an interesting opportunity for cross-border workers in Switzerland. With better time management and greater flexibility, workers can improve their quality of life and job satisfaction. It is important to inform yourself with your employer and collaborate with the competent authorities to adopt this modality effectively. Source: tvsvizzera.it
Punti chiave
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the benefits of the four-day workweek for employees?
- The four-day workweek improves employees' health, boosts motivation and productivity, and offers greater flexibility in managing personal time.
- How can I find out if my company is experimenting with the four-day workweek?
- You can ask your employer or consult the Bern University of Applied Sciences for information on ongoing studies.
- What are the concrete steps to adopt the four-day workweek?
- The steps include informing your employer, consulting the Bern University of Applied Sciences, reorganizing work, and monitoring results.