$5 workday policy introduced, doubling wages and reducing employee turnover.

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Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
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3 min read

The introduction of the \$5 workday policy marked a revolutionary moment in labor history, significantly impacting both worker welfare and business efficiency. Spearheaded by Henry Ford in 1914, this policy more than doubled the average wage of factory workers, increasing daily pay from around \$2.34 to \$5. This bold move wasn't merely an act of generosity—it was a strategic effort to reduce employee turnover, improve productivity, and ultimately enhance the quality and consistency of production at Ford's factories. The results were immediate and profound: job satisfaction soared, absenteeism dropped, and Ford attracted a more skilled and dedicated workforce. Beyond the factory floor, the \$5 workday had ripple effects across the broader economy and society. Workers, now earning a livable wage, became customers themselves—able to afford the very products they were manufacturing. This policy helped lay the groundwork for the modern middle class and consumer-driven economy. It showcased how ethical business decisions could align with economic growth, setting a precedent for fair labor practices that many companies strive to follow even today. \#MomentsOfLife #MoofLife\_Moment #MoofLife #WorkplaceRevolution #FairWages #EmployeeWellbeing #BusinessInnovation
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