Should I Work Third Shift?

It’s tough taking a job when the word “graveyard” is involved. It just has a spooky vibe. But get beyond its “graveyard shift” reputation and some of the logistical challenges of going to work at midnight, and a third-shift position can present its share of perks.

So how do you know if this schedule can work for you? There are a few factors to consider as you weigh a third-shift opportunity.

Here are some elements to keep in mind:

Family Matters

Not every family is built for 9-to-5 lives. Sometimes, alternative schedules make things easier. For instance, you can minimize childcare costs by working a different shift than your spouse. Or maybe you need to take care of a sick relative during the day. Whatever the reason, a third shift can open up new ways of dealing with family scheduling issues.

At the same time, a third shift can put significant strain on relationships. When considering the third shift, you should look at your own situation and determine how starting work at midnight will impact your other responsibilities.

Maximizing Income

A third shift can mean more money. Since most people prefer a traditional day schedule, companies often need a little extra incentive to coax people into graveyard duty. Hence, a category known as “shift differential pay.”

In simple terms, this just refers to the added cash you can earn by agreeing to a night shift. Now, it’s important to note that additional pay isn’t required. In the words of the U.S. Labor Department, the subject of night pay “is a matter of agreement between the employer and the employee.”

Still, many companies offer this compensation bump. One study showed that 83% of manufacturing employers offered shift differentials. (Though, the stats also show that many other industries have less than half of companies providing this bonus.)

Minimizing Hassles

Do you hate lines? Traffic? Dealing with other people in general? A third shift might offer a great fit for you.

Because most people operate on roughly a 9-to-5 routine, those times are normally very busy. Most people drive to work at the same time. Head home at the same time. Eat lunch at the same time. Stop at the grocery store at the same time.

All this activity leads to crowds, rush hours, and general frustration. By working a third shift, your daily rhythm is out of step with the norm. And that provides many benefits. Driving and running errands suddenly become much easier.

Even your workplace can seem quieter and more peaceful during the night shift. After all, most of your bosses will still work during the day.

Biological Clocks

No, we don’t mean the kind of “biological clock” that tells you when it’s time to start having kids. Here, we’re talking about sleep cycles. Some people just can’t adjust to a late-night schedule. No matter how many day-sleeping tricks they try, they can’t make their bodies operate on a third-shift routine.

For other people, the timing works out perfectly. These positions are ideal for night owls. If you have that kind of biological clock, a third shift might present a dream situation.

Whatever shift you want, a good recruiting firm, like SmartTalent, can find the perfect position for you.

Contact SmartTalent today to learn more.