Silicon Valley Startups Adopt ‘996’ Work Schedule

Would you be willing to work an almost double standard 40-hour week? This is a question that many startups in the U.S. are now posing to prospective employees, with an unwavering expectation for a positive response. Embracing an intense work schedule initially popularized in mainland China, the ‘996’ model—where employees work from 9 am to 9 pm, six days a week—has resurfaced in Silicon Valley, translating to a demanding 72-hour work week.

Amid the competitive landscape of AI and technology startups, some founders are beginning to assert that these long hours are necessary for ambitious growth and stability within their companies. The culture of Silicon Valley, once celebrated for its generous perks and flexible work environments, is facing a significant transformation as these demands for accountability escalate.

As companies aim to navigate the pressures of rapid development and innovation, the 996 schedule stands as a pivotal factor in their recruitment strategies. This rigorous expectation raises concerns about employee burnout, mental health, and maintaining sustainable productivity in a space that has typically emphasized work-life balance.

While many employees might acknowledge the potential benefits of hard work and long hours for career advancement, an intensification of such schedules prompts serious reflections on societal expectations around labor and personal well-being. As this trend continues to evolve, it poses urgent questions about corporate responsibility in creating healthier work environments and the definition of success within the tech sector.