There are pros and cons to every shift in the workday. For some employees, working earlier hours during first shift is ideal. For others, it’s more practical to work during the night with third shift. Here’s how to find out which option is best for you based on your interests and needs.
First Shift
This is the most common shift and typically goes from 9am to 5pm. However, it can vary slightly with some first shifts going from 8am to 4pm, or some from 10am to 6pm. If you’re naturally an early riser and want to have free time in the evening and night, this is usually your best bet.
Or if you have children and need to tend to them before and after school, first shift is a good option. The main downside is that you may have to deal with heavy traffic during your drive to and from work, and waking up early can be difficult for some people.
Second Shift
Second shift employees typically begin work at either 4 or 5pm and end their workday at midnight or 1am. This route is beneficial if you dislike waking up early, and it gives you time to relax and prepare for work without having to rush.
While you will still have to face traffic on your way to work, it should be extremely light on your way home. This shift is also nice because it gives you time to run errands and go to appointments during the day, which is a luxury those working first shift don’t have. The primary drawback is that you may not have a lot of time to be around your family and friends because of the odd hours.
Third Shift
Also known as the night shift or graveyard shift, this involves working overnight. Employees usually punch in sometime between 10pm and midnight and work until 6am or 8pm of the following day. Perhaps the best part about this shift is that you completely avoid traffic congestion. You have time to run errands and take care of other responsibilities during the day. It’s also perfect for “night owls” who naturally prefer to go to bed late and wake up late.
Two of the biggest issues third shift employees face are lack of sleep and the social isolation that can stem from not being able to see loved ones as much as they would like.
Choosing the right shift for you ultimately depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. Hopefully, this information has provided some pros and cons of each shift so you’ll know which one you’re best suited for.
Looking for work? Get in touch with the professionals at Axiom Staffing Group to learn about job opportunities in your area.
