I work for a college and for years our union has been trying to negotiate the option of a 4/10 work schedule, but it’s always been turned down because of the scheduling problems it would cause for supervisors.
Like every place we are short staffed. Our department used to be very popular to work for; however, management has been so dysfunctional very few people want to transfer in. As a way to incentivize people transferring in they are proposing a 4/10 work week for everyone and our division will be closed every Friday. To make matters worse, they want to do it on a trial basis.
I have been planning to retire and this is the last straw, I can’t see staying there.
I resent the hell out of this idea because it is solely on their terms even though they are making themselves out to be generous and caring.
My feeling is that they need to address the reasons why they have a bad reputation and learn how best to accommodate those who want a 4/10 schedule.
I am angry because as I think their proposal through I would be giving up a good work/life balance in favor of being given a three day weekend. The work day would be 11 hours because of lunch and my commute is 1/2 hr each way. I’m afraid to mention my concerns because I know my coworkers really want this.
Lastly, I am anxious over the trial period. People who really want it will be upset if it doesn’t work out and I’ll be mad if I have change my schedule for nothing.