Popular in Sweden, five or six hour work days are a relatively new experiment that more companies are starting to embrace. Though the very idea might make company owners either laugh or stare in horror, those who do choose to implement the 5 hour workday have nothing but good things to say about it.
Company founder of Tower Paddle Boards, Stephan Aarstol decided that instead of giving his employees a pay rise, he would cut their hours. He reduced the workday to five hours, yet the pay 
remained the same. Though Aarstol was worried that customers would be put off doing business with them. He says that the calls are still coming through but in more concentrated periods. Productivity has not gone down and his employees are leading happier, healthier lifestyle.
Pros of 5 hour workdays
Efficient working
With only a short amount of time to work you might think that less work gets done. Yet the opposite seems to be true. People are encouraged to concentrate more and find new, more efficient ways of getting work done. Employees are less likely to pay back their employer’s generous working conditions by wasting time on social media.
Better company image
Giving employees more freedom and a better work life balance means your public images is one of a progressive, responsible company. This could mean that other companies or clients are more likely to want to do business with you. It also makes you a competitive company when it comes to attracting the right staff.
Happier, healthier employees
With more leisure time, employees have more chance to lead a healthier and happier lifestyle. They may exercise more, eat better, leading to better health and fewer absences due to an improved immune system. They also have more time and energy to learn new skills or go on courses that could be useful in work.
Cons of 5 hour workdays
Employees might abuse the privilege
This is probably the main fear that company owners have. You might be worried that workers will use the shorter days as an excuse to get less work done. If employees are procrastinating at the same rate they do during the 8 hour day, then the working time will be significantly less than 5 hours. However, company owners who use this model usually report that work output has not been affected or has even increased as a result of a shorter day.
Clients might find it harder to contact you
If your company doesn’t follow the usual working hours then clients might find it harder to contact you. Like Aarstol feared, some customers might be put off doing business with you and it might be that not all companies are as lucky as his. However, if you make this clear to your clients it shouldn’t be too much of a problem.
Not suited to many industries
Unfortunately, some companies will find it very difficult or even impossible to cut working hours. This could be true for labour intensive businesses, medical fields or retailers where flexibility is more difficult.