Originally Posted by
Artkansas
My employer already has shorter weeks, as do many retailers. If you work full time area then they have to provide benefits. Part-time employees are cheaper. Of course they want you available 24/7, just in case they need you.
I think this is the real trend. Not shorter work weeks, but employers gaming the system to require that so-called part-time workers will be available on call at the whim of their employer, while not providing the benefits of full-time work.
Personally, I work 12 hour shifts, three shifts a week. This is considered full-time, but I am sometimes required to work mandatory overtime or the opposite--have shifts cancelled with only 90 minutes advance notice. It sucks, but this is pretty standard for hospitals in my area. Sweden would be a dream--high taxes, but great services, security, and protection in return.