German Workers Seek Flexibility in Eight-Hour Workday

A recent survey by Stepstone and YouGov shows 73% of German employees are open to working more than eight hours a day if it means fewer hours on other days. This reflects a strong preference for flexible working conditions and the belief that self-determined hours lead to higher productivity, as agreed by 75% of respondents. However, only 20% currently enjoy complete freedom in scheduling their work hours.

Despite the desire for flexible schedules, the traditional five-day workweek remains the norm for 81% of employees. Only 18% are offered a four-day workweek, though 42% see it as feasible. Flexitime is an option for 37%, while trust-based hours are available to only 20%.

Dr. Tobias Zimmermann from Stepstone suggests that while flexibility cannot be instantly realized across all sectors, dialogue between companies and employees is crucial. Greater work-life balance could lead to more relaxed and focused workers, benefiting both parties.