The first thought that often pops into people’s heads when they are told they’re being assigned to night shift is, “Oh no!” The dreaded night shift is only a beast in our imaginations. The truth is, there are many benefits to working the night shift that people don’t immediately consider; here are just five:
1. Shift Allowance
Most organizations pay a shift allowance to the employees that work the night shift. This extra bit of cash is an attempt to compensate night workers for the effects and inconveniences that burning the midnight oil can bring. It’s a well-known fact that night shift workers often experience more sickness, a lack of sleep and poor diet. While the shift allowance may seem like a pittance, even if you’re only pulling an extra 50 cents an hour, it can mean just over $100 more per month when you add it up.
2. Time for Busy Work
If you work in a busy office or corporation, you know how difficult it can be to get the job done during the day. Not only are you trying to get things done, but you’re spending time answering phones, speaking with clients and waiting on customers. During the night shift, the only thing you have to concentrate on is work. It can be very gratifying being able to get all of your work done in a single shift, without interruption.
3. Job Satisfaction
If you do help clients during your shift, chances are they will be fewer and farther between. This means that you will have more time to individualize your attention, rather than being forced to run through your clients like they are on a conveyor belt. Being able to spend so much one-on-one time with clients and customers can be extremely satisfying, as you will be able to solve the issue without such a time crunch.
4. Peace and Quiet
Let’s face it: Day shift work is often busy and loud. You won’t understand just how busy and loud until you work a night shift or two. Working during the wee hours of the morning is quieter than any hour of the day. If you’re the type of person who works better with fewer distractions, you’ll love the night shift. Imagine being able to work in a calm environment, with little to take your focus away from the job at hand.
5. A Life
Working the night shift is often one of the best shifts for people who have a life outside of work. Do you have a doctor’s appointment in the morning? Go to bed later. Do the kids have a game after school? Get your sleep in the morning. You can go to the mall and avoid the crowds, get your banking done while everyone else is at work, and enjoy a relaxing lunch with your friends any day of the week. You’ll be amazed at all of the things you’ve been missing out on once your days are free.
Don’t panic if you’ve been told that you’ll soon be assigned to the night shift. Yes, there are drawbacks to shift work but, the good news is, the benefits far outweigh them if you approach your new schedule with the right attitude.
Sharon Smith is an avid blogger. If you need to organize your time or you need to manage shift schedules for others, look into www.shiftschedulessoftware.
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