Most of us are familiar with the regular work schedule that consists of working 8-hours-per day, 5-days-a-week, totalling a 40-hour workweek. But, did you know that there is an alternative to this schedule called the 9/80 work schedule? The 9/80 schedule is a compressed work schedule which consists of eight 9-hour days, one 8-hour day, and one day off in a 2-week period. More specifically, a 9/80 work schedule allows team members to work 80 hours over nine days rather than the usual 10 days (assuming a five-day workweek). This makes it possible for companies to give team members an entire day off every other week.
Pros of a 9/80 work schedule
Work/life balance
With two extra days off per month your team members can schedule appointments, spend time with family and friends, and conduct personal business. Team members are less likely to burnout or be fatigued at work, and it may also lead to fewer sick times and time-off requests.
Less commuting
With two extra days off a month you team members will spend less time in the car, spend less money on gas, and will save mileage on their vehicles.
Increased productivity and engagement
With an extra hour of work per day, team members may complete tasks quicker which will lead to increased productivity and engagement. They may also feel more energized because of the extra day off every two weeks.
Improved team morale
Employees are happier with their schedules when they get more time off, which is beneficial for both them and your business in general. It also makes it easier for employees who need flexible hours or other accommodations through their employer's HR department because they don't need as much flexibility as someone who works on a traditional 40-hour schedule every week (or 50-60 hours if you're working overtime).
Cons of a 9/80 work schedule
Longer workdays
During the days with increased working hours, team members may feel like they are living at the office and this could wear on morale and productivity after a while.
Pay periods
This schedule only works with biweekly pay schedules (that's twice a month). If your company pays monthly, then it won't work for them unless they switch their payment method over to biweekly payments and adjust everyone's salary accordingly. This could cause some confusion among employees who were used to getting paid once every two weeks before adopting this new system.
Requesting time off
This type of schedule can be difficult for team members who like structure in their lives or need time off to manage childcare or family responsibilities. For example, if you're a student whose classes are all on Mondays and Wednesdays, you may find it difficult not knowing the exact days you'll have class on any given week.
What types of businesses does this typically work for?
A 9/80 schedule is ideal for small businesses that need flexibility. If you have a high degree of flexibility and can work from home, this might be a good option for you.
If your business does not require interaction with customers on a regular basis (such as retail), then this schedule may also be suitable for you.
Conclusion
The 9/80 work schedule is a great option for companies that need to do more with less. It allows employees to take an extended vacation or sick leave without affecting their ability to come back and hit the ground running. Not only does it help you recruit top talent, but it also makes your employees happier, healthier people who are less likely to leave in search of better work/life balance elsewhere.
