SAN FRANCISCO / LONDON (IT BOLTWISE) – While the discussion about introducing a four-day week is gaining momentum in Europe, some US startups are relying on a radical working time model. These companies require their employees to work a 72-hour week, inspired by the Chinese ‘996’ model. But experts warn about the risks of such an approach, particularly when it comes to burnout and productivity.
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A remarkable trend is emerging in the USA that is causing turmoil in the world of work. Some startups, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence, have adopted the so-called ‘996’ model, which originally comes from China. This model requires employees to work from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., six days a week, which corresponds to a 72-hour week. Companies like Rilla emphasize in their job advertisements that only candidates who are willing to accept these long working hours are welcome.
The trend towards a 72-hour week is in stark contrast to developments in Europe, where the four-day week is becoming increasingly important. A British study of 60 companies showed that shorter working hours can lead to higher productivity. The participants reported less stress and fewer sick calls. These findings have led to many of the companies involved planning to stick with the four-day week permanently.
However, experts warn about the dangers associated with excessive workload. In the US, burnouts have reached record levels, which may be due to extreme work hours. Nearly 70 percent of respondents to a Care.com survey said they were at moderate to high risk of burnout. This overload not only leads to exhaustion, but also to an inner detachment from work, which negatively affects productivity.
In Germany, Generation Z is particularly critical of traditional work structures. She calls for more flexible working time models and a better work-life balance. This is in line with the demands of the Institute for Economic Research (ifo), which expects Germans to perform better at work. However, the question remains open as to whether longer working hours actually lead to more productivity or whether a rethink towards shorter working hours is necessary in order to master the challenges of the modern working world.
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