An online advertising startup has adopted a unique method to achieve zero overtime in its workplace by paying a higher bonus to employees who have reduced their work hours after quitting time, a move likely to draw attention as more Japanese try to achieve a better work-life balance.
During a typical day recently at Quartet Communications Co., staff began preparing to leave their Nagoya office when music started playing at 6 p.m.
"I'm happy that I get a higher bonus for leaving early," said a male employee in his 30s before quickly heading out the door. The company's 40 employees had completely vacated the office within 30 minutes.