What is first shift? Your guide to the hours and benefits

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes 

First shift, also known as day shift, is the most traditional work schedule companies offer. People who work this shift enjoy many benefits that contribute to a fulfilling professional and personal life. 

If you’re asking yourself, “what is first shift?” keep reading to learn the hours first shift associates work along with the advantages that come with this schedule.  

First shift hours  

The most common first shift schedule begins around 8 a.m. and ends around 5 p.m., with a one-hour lunch break around midday. However, day shift hours can vary based on the role you're in, the company you work for and if you have a lunch break. 

First shift employees can work a Monday-Friday schedule or a schedule that includes weekends, depending on the needs of the company. 

8 benefits of working first shift

1. Work a traditional schedule.

First shift associates work regular business hours when most people are also on-the-clock.

Having a conventional schedule can be especially beneficial when working with people outside your company. Examples include:

• Being more likely to receive a timely response from vendors and customers when you contact them during the daytime than in the evening or at night.
• Being able to attend most business meetings, which are typically scheduled during the day.
• Having more chances to collaborate with a larger group.

• Being more involved in decision-making processes than those on second or third shift would be.

2. Have a standard sleep schedule. 

First shift workers are awake when it’s light outside and asleep when it’s dark. Following this traditional sleep schedule supports the body's natural internal clock, which is beneficial for your physical and mental health. 

3. Be able to wake up early.

If you’re an early riser, first shift is likely the best fit for your schedule.  

Many first shift associates find they get the most work done in the morning, since that’s when they feel the most refreshed and ready to take on the day. 

4. Have more job opportunities. 

Many office-based roles are structured around first shift hours. As a result, people who work first shift typically have access to a wider array of job opportunities than those who work support shift. 

5. Attend company events. 

A lot of companies host things like lunches, networking events and training sessions during the day. First shift associates have easier access to those events than second or third shift associates do. 

6. Interact more with leaders. 

Since most leaders work during the day, you'll naturally have more chances to interact with them in the office on first shift than if you worked support shift. This is a great opportunity for you to network and take advantage of career development opportunities.

7. Enjoy a better work-life balance.

Working during the day gives you free time in the evening, which is when most after-work activities occur. Having a first shift job will give you the freedom to do things like:

• Go out to dinner with friends.
• Attend family functions and activities.
• Get involved in after-hours networking events.
• Join recreational sports leagues.
• Pursue hobbies.
• Work out in the early evening.

8. Have more childcare options. 

People who work first shift usually have more childcare options available to them. Most daycare centers, preschools and after-school programs operate during standard business hours, allowing parents who work first shift to drop their kids off before work and pick them up afterward.