A printable worksheet for news-based English conversation classes.
Date: 2023/03/20
Difficulty: Intermediate B1
PDF: Four-day workweek not a perfect fit for all
YouTube: Four-day workweek not a perfect fit for all
pilot - | - exhaustion | |
burnout - | - put into practice | |
decompress - | - strong | |
intense - | - relax | |
ultimately - | - trial | |
implement - | - finally |
A UK pilot of a four-day workweek had positive results, with 92% of participating companies continuing the reduced hours. Employees reported reduced burnout and better well-being.
Alison Dunn, CEO of Citizens Advice in Gateshead, said, "Burnout has been an issue, so the four-day week has given them space to decompress."
However, some businesses faced challenges. Allcap, an engineering company, had issues with scheduling and staffing, ultimately ending the trial early. Other companies found the shortened workweek caused more intense workdays.
For some, a flexible, reduced-hour workweek seemed a better solution. University professor Abigail Marks says a six-hour workday might be better, and the success of the trials shows people are moving away from the usual nine-to-five work schedule.
A: | Hey, we're starting the four-day workweek trial next week! |
B: | I know, but I'm a bit worried about fitting all my work into just four days. |
A: | Really? I can't wait. I'm going to sit in the garden and catch some rays. |
B: | Sounds nice, but I'm concerned we'll have to work overtime to get everything done. |
A: | True, it could get busy around here, but we won't know until we try. |
B: | You're right. Let's hope it works out for the best, and we can find a good balance. |
pilot → trial |
burnout → exhaustion |
decompress → relax |
intense → strong |
ultimately → finally |
implement → put into practice |
https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20230319-four-day-workweek-trial-the-firms-where-it-didnt-work