PHR Staffing Solutions is proud to offer a wide variety of job opportunities to applicants throughout the Polk County area, and that variance includes working hours! From regular nine to five options, to jobs with weekend overtime, we know that your schedule matters and will affect the type of work you can do, and we seek to accommodate that as much as possible. For many, the answer to their scheduling needs are night shift positions, and we almost always have job openings that meet this need.
However, night shift life can be difficult, especially if you’re new to this type of schedule and are in the adjustment period. That’s why we put together some tips to guide you as you learn the ropes of night shift life and transition into your new career! If you’re recently hired for a third shift position…
…Have a schedule and stick to it. We know that life can throw unexpected curve balls, but as much as possible, it’s important to stick to a schedule and routine when you work night shift, since your sleep, eating, etc. will depend on this. Unlike typical daytime workers, your schedule will have you waking when others are turning in, and headed home to sleep when many are starting their day. Being sure to have a routine (such as having breakfast already prepared at home so you can eat a quick bite before grabbing some winks) will make you less likely to miss meals or be forced to operate on less-than-adequate sleep. Also note that schedules are a family commitment, so be sure your spouse, children, and other members of the household are on board with the schedule and it’s a group effort.
…Create an environment that promotes sleep. As mentioned above, your “night” time will occur when many are starting their day…including the sun. Because of this, it’s important that you create an environment that promotes sleep and lets you get the rest you need. Blackout curtains, fans that provide air flow and noise, white noise machines, sleep masks, etc. are all great ways to give yourself a dark, quiet environment to retreat to when you arrive home from night shift and are ready for some rest.
…Don’t forget to soak up some rays. Those who work night shift can struggle with getting much-needed sunshine and, consequently, Vitamin D and emotional boosts that come with it. Your body essentially needs 7-8 hours of sleep each “night’ to function at its best, so if you get off work at 6 or 7 AM, you can head home, and if you’re in bed by 9 AM, get in your full rest time by dinner. Be sure to give yourself time to get up, get showered, and get some daylight hours in before you head back to work that night. This is key to feeling “human” and will be a huge benefit in helping you both mentally and physically. If needed, sit on your back patio or out in your yard for an hour or two, or sit by a sunny window to get the rays you need.
We hope these tips inspire you whether you’re a night shift pro or are just taking the first steps toward transitioning to a night shift job. No matter the type of job you need, PHR Staffing Solutions is here and ready to help you. We provide support throughout the entire application and hiring process, and make it our personal goal to see you get hired. Give us a call or apply for one of our openings online!