Close to half of professionals in Singapore believe four-day workweeks would boost productivity

Singapore, 29 May 2025 - Hays, the world's leading recruitment and workforce solutions specialist, polled working professionals on LinkedIn across five locations in Asia including Singapore, China, Hong Kong SAR, Japan and Malaysia. Respondents were asked to weigh in on their sense of productivity in four-day workweek. 

The findings reveal strong support for the model in Singapore, where 49 per cent of respondents believe they would be more focused if required to complete their tasks within a four-day timeframe. China led the region, with 73 per cent of professionals expressing confidence in their ability to maintain focus and productivity under a shorter workweek model, followed by Hong Kong (69 per cent), Malaysia (65 per cent) and Japan (54 per cent). 

“Professionals are showing growing interest in the four-day workweek as a way to enhance efficiency and focus,” said John Borneman, Regional Director at Hays Singapore. “This is particularly relevant in Singapore, where 32 per cent of those polled in the Hays Asia Salary Guide indicated they are unhappy with their work-life balance.” 

Resistance to the concept was minimal, with only six per cent of respondents expressing concern that the workload would be too heavy for a shortened week. Meanwhile, ten per cent indicated that the change would have little impact due to already having flexible schedules, and 35 per cent said their performance would depend on the nature of their role. 
 

Shorter workweeks linked to greater job satisfaction and productivity

The concept of offering professionals an additional day of rest within the standard workweek continues to gain traction globally. A pilot study in the United Kingdom demonstrated that participants in a reduced workweek reported fewer absences and lower turnover, outcomes closely linked to improved work-life balance. 

“Work-life balance has become a critical factor in both attracting and retaining talent in Singapore. Currently, 38 per cent of professionals consider these policies when evaluating new opportunities, while 39 per cent have remained with their current employer due to the work-life balance offered,1” said John. 

Beyond boosting employee productivity, shorter workweeks also help reduce operating costs, allowing organisations committed to remaining closed one extra day a week to save on utilities and other overheads. These efficiencies contribute meaningfully to Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) goals—by lowering carbon emissions, supporting employee wellbeing, and reinforcing a company’s commitment to sustainable and socially responsible business practices. 

Uprooting a tradition of work culture

Despite the growing interest in shorter workweeks, it remains unclear how many organisations have formally adopted the four-day model. The traditional five-day workweek continues to be the global norm, but signs of change are emerging. 

“Although the four-day workweek is not yet widely adopted in Singapore, the government has taken proactive steps to support its consideration,” said John. “Guidelines have been introduced allowing employees to request shorter workweeks and other flexible arrangements, initiatives that resonate with professionals seeking improved work-life balance.” 

“With growing data supporting the advantages of this model, attention is turning to how businesses can adopt it in a sustainable way. It would, however, take brave leadership to push such a significant change to established work practices in the pursuit of improved productivity in this economic environment,” said John.