As worldwide managers grapple with remote workplace productivity standards, Bunny Studio’s unconventional 4-day work week model has businesses rethinking micromanagement.
Two years to date, the disruption of COVID-19 still sees reverberating effects. While the environment enjoyed the greener pastures of reduced commutes, businesses worldwide are still wavering about business-as-usual operations. During these tumultuous times, human resources, in particular, are precious and must churn a return of investment. Unexpectedly, Fast Company and Business Insider are reporting that more businesses are adopting a 4-day workweek.
Bunny Studio is one such organization. In 2021, the fully remote creative service provider reported an average rating of 4 out of 5 on employee productivity and work quality satisfaction. Maika Hoekman is the Head of People Operations at Bunny Studio.
“We name our Fridays ‘Push, play, learn’ to provide employees the flexibility to work, unwind, or pick up a class. Even with the shorter workweek, we’ve seen no negative impact on our revenue growth over the last 2 years,” comments Hoekman.
Albeit appealing, the perk of reduced working hours does not come without a price. The recent global switch to remote workplaces has left many managers with unsettling trust issues. Influenced by the nuances of geographical work culture, some regions find it more difficult to conform to the new norm. Singapore-based Bunny Studio employee Rachel Weiss empathizes with Asia’s struggle to adapt to work-from-home arrangements.
“Singapore has been ranked as the world’s second-most overworked city. Corporate hierarchy is a lot more integral in APAC than in the west. That means getting superior approval for most decisions. The pandemic has changed that, but not without reticence.” said Weiss. “Ergo, going full-steam ahead with a 4-day week can be challenging, and not for everyone,” she added.
Above work environments that micromanage, a short week can also be difficult for businesses that provide front-line services. The retail sector operates at an average of 12 hours a day, and arranging shifts can be time-consuming, although not impossible. Bunny Studio, for example, operates a global platform that provides 24/7 support.
“We have full-time employees in over 20 countries spanning 5 continents. It’s a simple matter of scheduling and having the right communication tools. People need mental breaks no matter their role. We found that providing flexibility is more valuable than gourmet lunches. We’ve even had employees decline jobs with higher pay because of our 4-day week,” said Hoekman.
Bunny Studio has grown in manpower and revenue over the last two years. A fully remote company before the pandemic, it continues to support the gig economy and businesses through its risk-free creative services.
