Is More Time at Your Desk Really Making You More Productive?

Productivity isn’t just about how long we sit at our desks – it’s about what we actually get done while we’re there.

In recent years, there’s been a noticeable shift in how we view working hours. From the rise of the 4-day workweek to flexible start and finish times, more organisations are starting to question the age-old belief that more hours = more output.

But does cutting back on time at work really boost productivity?

 

The Case for Fewer Hours

Research says yes – at least in many cases. A UK pilot of the 4-day workweek saw 92% of companies deciding to continue the model. Why? Because people were just as productive in less time. In fact, many were more focused, more energised, and more satisfied with their jobs.

It makes sense. When people know they have less time to complete their tasks, they tend to work smarter. Meetings become more focused. Procrastination dips. And the ever-present ‘I’ll do it later’ mindset starts to disappear.

 

What Productivity Really Looks Like

We often confuse busyness with productivity. But clocking long hours doesn’t mean we’re adding more value. Burnout, stress, and disengagement are productivity killers – and they’re rampant in environments where long hours are the norm.

Studies have shown that most employees are only truly productive for around 3 to 4 hours per day. So stretching that across an 8-hour workday (or longer) may not be the best strategy for getting things done.

 

The Conditions Matter

That said, shorter hours only work when the structure and culture support it. Without clarity, accountability, and focus, shaving off hours can lead to chaos.

For reduced-hour models to work, teams need:

• Clear goals and expectations.
• Systems to support async work and fewer meetings.
• A culture that values results over presenteeism.

Without these, productivity can suffer – even with fewer hours.

 

So… Does Less Time Equal More Output?

It can. But only when businesses rethink how work is done, not just how long it lasts.

The real opportunity lies in designing work with intention – cutting out the noise and focusing on what truly drives results.

Whether it’s trialling a 4-day week, trimming meeting overload, or letting employees choose when and where they work best, one thing is clear: more time doesn’t always mean more output. In many cases, it means more burnout, more distractions, and less of what really matters.

 

JGA Recruitment Group: Connecting Talent. Driving Success.

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