The ‘first’ Australian agency to implement a four-day working week, Deepend, has reported a 46% growth in revenue, less than a year after its flexible arrangement with staff.
In July 2018, the digital agency decided to close its doors on Wednesdays and give employees the option to either work from home or extended hours throughout the week.
The move from the agency, which was awarded AdNews Employer of the Year last week, aimed to improve staff wellbeing and office culture at a time when the pressures of working in the industry have raised significant concern.
“Frankly, this is the future of work,” says Deepend Melbourne MD Jonny Clow.
“The success we’re seeing from a business perspective is already evident. Unsurprisingly, our staff have universally embraced the philosophy.
“Talent and creativity need respect and protection. Stress and burnout are always a threat. This is about allowing our staff to continue to deliver the highest standard of work possible for our clients.”
The agency, which hopes others will follow its lead, also added that a more flexible working arrangement benefits the wider society.
It notes it reduces commuter traffic by 20%, reducing pollution. It could also help decrease the gender pay gap by better accommodating working parents.
“We strongly believe in valuing and nurturing our talent,” founder and director Kath Blackman says.
“We recognise that our staff work hard in very demanding and high-pressure roles, the truth is we all need flexibility to manage our complex lives and commitments.
I’m surprised and proud that Deepend is the first agency to offer this arrangement and I’m confident others will follow our example once they observe the benefits.”
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