Forget AI: Leaders' Face Time Habits Still Dictate Workdays

Leading business figures predict that artificial intelligence will usher in a shorter workweek, with some foreseeing a four-day or even three-day week. However, this optimistic outlook is questioned, as historical technological advancements have paradoxically led to increased work hours rather than reductions. Despite successful trials of four-day workweeks in places like Iceland and Britain, which reported maintained or improved productivity and employee well-being, American companies have been slower to adopt this model.

A primary reason cited for this resistance is executives' strong preference for 'face time' in the office, with many leaders who predict future shorter weeks demanding longer hours now. Furthermore, past technological shifts, from typewriters to the internet, ultimately expanded workloads by enabling constant productivity and increased expectations. Similar to how household appliances didn't reduce domestic chores but changed standards, AI is currently observed to intensify work rather than lighten it.

While some economists suggest reducing work hours to address potential AI-driven job displacement, and companies like Cisco and IBM have cited AI in layoffs, the broad shift to a shorter week faces cultural and logistical challenges. America's workaholic culture, where busyness is a status symbol, and complex societal structures built around the five-day cadence present significant obstacles. Nevertheless, a few US companies like Kickstarter and ThredUp have reported positive outcomes from implementing a four-day week, showcasing its potential viability.