PCD

Cambridge IELTS Writing Task 2 Test 2

The working week should be shorter and workers should have a longer weekend.

The working week should be shorter and workers should have a longer weekend.
Do you agree or disagree?

The idea of reducing the working week and extending the weekend for employees is a controversial topic. I am strongly against this proposal, as it could lead to decreased productivity and have a negative impact on businesses and the economy.

The primary reason I oppose a shorter workweek with longer weekends is that it could result in a drop in overall productivity. Many industries rely on the current five-day workweek to keep operations running smoothly and meet deadlines effectively. Reducing the workweek could upset this balance, making it harder to complete tasks on time. For example, when my company, which manufactures garage doors, trialed a shorter workweek, there were frequent interruptions in production schedules, leading to missed delivery deadlines for customers.

Additionally, I believe that a shorter workweek could harm a business’s profitability. Many companies operate on tight margins, and cutting work hours might increase costs due to the need for more shifts or additional staff to cover operational hours. This could be especially difficult for small businesses that already face resource constraints. For instance, a small retail store I advised found that reducing employee hours forced them to hire part-time workers, which raised payroll costs and caused service disruptions. This led to financial difficulties and lower customer satisfaction. In the long run, such financial strain could result in bankruptcies, damaging the broader economy.

In conclusion, I strongly disagree with the suggestion to shorten the working week and lengthen the weekend. The potential for reduced productivity and financial strain on businesses are serious concerns. Maintaining the current workweek structure is essential for ensuring consistent productivity and supporting economic stability.