Microshifting: fitting work into short, non-continuous blocks

Microshifting, born during the pandemic, describes an extreme form of hybrid working in which people meet employment responsibilities in short, non-continuous blocks that suit their personal productivity patterns or domestic requirements.

Described in the coverage as “like microdosing, but for work,” microshifting can mean concentrating on a job for an hour before playing tennis, or spending a Tuesday afternoon socialising and working late to catch up. The idea is to fit work around commitments such as childcare, medical appointments, shopping, exercise or a second job.

An Owl Labs report on the future of working is cited as saying nearly 30% of hybrid workers have a second job or side hustle, and that office appearances are rising for hybrid workers — 34% are now in the office four days a week, up from 23% in 2023. The report also says workers would sacrifice about 9% of their salary for more flexible hours, and that 51% of employees already schedule personal appointments during traditional working hours, rising to 61% for Gen Z.

The coverage notes microshifting is being driven by employees and is happening now, and says it could prove more productive than a traditional nine-to-five — though how to measure that is unclear. It concludes: "The boundaries of the workday are being redefined, and employers would do well to adapt."

Key Topics

Business, Microshifting, Owl Labs, Hybrid Working, Flexible Hours, Gen Z