How to Work Swing Shift and Still Have Work-Life Balance

A strong work-life balance is hard enough under normal circumstances. Add a non-traditional schedule, like a swing shift, and things get much more complicated.

Outside a 9-to-5 schedule, it can get tough to find time for your other responsibilities. Simple things, like connecting with your loved ones, become a challenge. You need to learn to juggle the various parts of your life.

Don’t get discouraged, though. There are steps you can take. We’ll take you through the information you need to work a swing shift and still have a good work-life balance.

What is a Swing Shift?

Regular working hours traditionally take place between 9 am and 5 pm. Meanwhile, the third shift, or midnight/graveyard shift, takes you into the overnight period. In between these, you’ll find the swing shift.

The hours here can depend on the particular situation. In general, you’re looking at a work period between about 4 pm and midnight.

Who Can Benefit from a Swing Shift?

About 70% of people work a standard day shift. However, that schedule doesn’t work for everyone. In the right situation, you can gain many benefits from a swing shift. Here are a few potential advantages to keep in mind:

• More money (sometimes): Legally, companies aren’t required to offer higher salaries for swing shifts. However, many provide a pay bump to entice workers to take these non-traditional schedules.
• Family scheduling: Tired of paying for childcare? A swing shift can let you arrange to have a parent at home at all times.
• Easier Commute: Because swing shifts come at off-hours for most people, traffic is often lighter going to and from work.
• Simplified Errands: This goes along with the lighter traffic. Since you’re free during regular working hours, it gets easier to run errands.

How to Balance a Swing Shift with the Rest of Your Life

A swing shift represents a different lifestyle. You can’t expect to run your life in the same way you would in a traditional day shift. You need to find ways to balance your work routine with your other responsibilities.

Build a Routine

Structure your other routines around your swing shift. This way, you can get the most out of every waking hour. Work out the best times to eat, sleep, and see your loved ones.

Take Advantage of Weekends and Days Off

A swing shift can make your personal life difficult. You might have trouble scheduling activities with friends and family. That makes vacations and weekends even more important than usual. Get the most out of these days off.

Set Long-Term Goals

How long do you want to keep your swing-shift job? That answer will depend on your particular circumstances.

Think about what you want to accomplish with your career and with your family life. This will let you know whether you should immediately start looking for a different schedule or whether you are happy with the swing-shift routine for the long haul.

Ready to consider a swing-shift position? It can provide the perfect fit for the right lifestyle. A top recruiter, like SmartTalent, can place you in the ideal situation for your needs.

Contact SmartTalent today to maximize your potential.