Calling All Night Owls: 5 Top Benefits of Working the Night Shift

Hey there, night owls! 

Are you the type of person who gets a second wind at night? Do you enjoy staying up late and getting extra work done? If so, working a night shift might be the thing for you. And it might even be the next best thing for your career!

Yes, the night shift—ominously nicknamed the “graveyard shift”—is not for the faint of heart. Your sleep cycle will get wonky, and your body clock may hate you for a while. But in the long run, working the night shift has some big pluses that may lastingly impact your career. 

5 Benefits of Working Night Shift

1. Earn More Money

You will earn more while working the night shift since most companies pay a higher base salary to night workers. Even if you occasionally pick up third shift hours, you may receive a shift differential (more money) for those night hours.

2. Streamline Your Career Growth 

Working nights allows you to grow your career more quickly. For starters, there will be less competition for managerial positions since fewer people work nights. Plus, you’ll be able to cross-train and become a more valuable, well-rounded employee.

3. Enjoy More Flexible Days 

Another benefit to working the night shift is the added daytime flexibility. Third shifts generally start between 10 and 11 p.m. and end between 7 and 8 a.m. (Imagine avoiding rush hour traffic every day!!) Your daytime hours will be free for running errands, family time, doctor appointments, and housework—all without using any vacation time. The night shift lets you be more attentive to your family since your work begins after everyone else settles in for the night. 

In addition, working the night shift could save you money on childcare. You can rotate childcare and after-school responsibilities if you and your partner work separate shifts. 

4. Go Back to School

Working nights also leaves daytime hours free for furthering your education. While going back to school is an excellent career growth catalyst, many people never get the chance because they have to make a living. However, working nights lets you continue earning an income while returning to school!

5. Make Deeper Connections 

Depending on your selected company and industry, the night shift may be more low-key than the day shift. A camaraderie develops between night-shift workers as they labor together through the world’s slumbering hours. It’s a special bond worth cultivating—and an opportunity for developing authentic and lasting friendships. 

Are you looking for your next career step? Whether you’re looking for a perfect night shift job or not, at Career Concepts, we’ve been helping the right people find the right job for over 50 years. Contact us today, and let’s get started!