The Four-Day Workweek: A Changing Workplace Model
The idea of a four-day workweek is gaining momentum worldwide—and Ireland is no exception. Recent trials have shown that shorter working weeks can reduce burnout, improve employee wellbeing, and even maintain or increase productivity. While not yet standard practice, many Irish businesses are exploring how they might implement this progressive model.
At Virtual Offices Dublin, we’ve seen how companies adopting flexible schedules are turning to virtual offices to support this transition. By combining professional credibility with operational agility, virtual offices make the four-day workweek more achievable.
What Is the Four-Day Workweek?
The most popular approach to a four-day week is the 100-80-100 principle:
- 100% pay
- 80% of the time
- 100% productivity
Rather than measuring success in hours at a desk, the focus shifts to results. This approach encourages efficiency, reduces wasted time, and fosters a healthier work–life balance.
A landmark study across 141 companies and nearly 2,900 workers—many from Ireland—found that reducing the workweek led to better physical and mental health, higher job satisfaction, and lower burnout. Ireland was among the first countries to pilot this model (Irish Post).
Benefits of the Four-Day Week with a Virtual Office
Greater Flexibility for Teams
With fewer days in the office, businesses don’t always need permanent space. A virtual office ensures your business maintains a prestigious Dublin address and professional communications—even when your team works remotely most of the week.
Reduced Overheads
Renting full-time office space can be unnecessary in a four-day model. Virtual offices allow companies to cut costs while keeping their operations polished and professional.
Improved Work–Life Balance
Pairing a shorter workweek with virtual services means less commuting and more time for personal wellbeing. Your staff stay connected through call answering, mail forwarding, and occasional meeting room access—without daily office routines.
Strong Professional Image
Even if your employees are working reduced days, your clients and partners will always see a professional Dublin presence. Calls are answered, mail is handled, and meetings can be hosted in dedicated spaces when needed.
How Virtual Offices Dublin Supports the Four-Day Week
Prestigious Business Address
Register your company with the CRO at a respected Dublin location, building trust while freeing you from the cost of a physical office.
Professional Call Answering & Forwarding
Our reception team ensures your business never misses a call, even when you or your team are out of the office on your “extra day off.”
Secure Mail Handling
Your company mail is received, managed, and forwarded based on your preferences—keeping operations seamless and compliant.
Access to Meeting Rooms & Hot Desks
Need in-person collaboration? Clients can book meeting rooms or hot desks at discounted rates for those essential face-to-face days.
TCSP Certification
As a Trust and Company Service Provider, Virtual Offices Dublin meets the highest compliance standards—giving your business the security and credibility it needs.
Why the Four-Day Week and Virtual Offices Work Together
Both the four-day workweek and virtual offices share the same philosophy: work smarter, not harder. By reducing time spent in a traditional office while maintaining professionalism and efficiency, companies can achieve the balance modern employees and clients expect.
Conclusion
The four-day workweek represents a shift towards smarter working in Ireland. For businesses adopting or trialling this approach, a virtual office offers the perfect support—keeping costs low, maintaining a professional image, and providing the flexibility modern teams need.
At Virtual Offices Dublin, we’re here to help you succeed in this new world of work.
FAQs
- Can I still register my business with the CRO if I use a virtual office?
Yes—our Dublin business addresses are suitable for CRO registration. - What happens to client calls on the day my office is closed?
Our professional call answering ensures your business is always represented, even when your team isn’t working. - Does a four-day week mean reduced availability for clients?
Not if you plan correctly. Many businesses stagger days off or use virtual services to ensure coverage throughout the week. - Are virtual office packages flexible?
Yes—our plans can be customised to your needs, including mail forwarding, call management, and meeting room access. - Why choose Virtual Offices Dublin?
With TCSP certification, flexible packages, and a central Dublin address, we provide trusted, compliant solutions for modern businesses.