"If a 72-hour work week sounds all-consuming, that's precisely the point. The 996 schedule-which became popularized in China, eventually leading to protests and even claims that it led to a handful of worker deaths-is meant to foster a eat-sleep-work lifestyle. Keith Spencer, a career expert at FlexJobs, told Fast Company that the trend is most commonly being seen across AI startups that "are embracing this approach to accelerate growth and remain competitive on a global scale.""
"While the intense work ethic sounds overwhelming, Spencer says that some young and hungry workers may actually be drawn to it. "Certain employees, especially younger workers, may even welcome this level of intense dedication, particularly when additional pay or incentives are offered," he explains. That may be especially true as the rise in 996 culture has been touted by major tech leaders like Elon Musk, who have long promoted a work ethic that asks employees to make some major sacrifices."
The 996 schedule—working 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., six days a week—has gained momentum in parts of the U.S., notably within AI startups. The 72-hour work week fosters an eat-sleep-work lifestyle and has roots in China, where it sparked protests and was linked to worker deaths. Career experts note startups embrace 996 to accelerate growth and compete globally. Some younger or highly motivated employees may welcome intense dedication when extra pay or incentives are offered. Prominent tech leaders have promoted extreme time commitments, with one stating that 80-hour weeks may be necessary to change the world. Hiring language now emphasizes obsession and extreme dedication.
Read at Fast Company
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]