I spent over a year working on the mid-shift. Typically, the mid-shift is from 3 PM to 12 AM PH Time (give or take 2 hours) because you're covering the EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) Region.
While I enjoyed it most of the time, there are still some disadvantages. Here are the pros and cons of working mid-shift you should consider.
Pro #1: Less Traffic During Commute.
The best thing about working during the mid-shift is avoiding the heavy traffic in the morning and afternoon. Since there's less traffic, you don't need to allot too much time for your commute.
Pro #2: Getting a Touch of the Night Shift Benefits.
If your mid-shift schedule grazes the night shift, like 9 PM to 12 AM, you can also get some of its benefits. When I was working mid-shift, I enjoyed a taxi allowance because my shift ended at midnight.
Pro #3: Sleeping In Without a Care.
Even if you work a regular shift, there's a big chance you're still spending a lot of time on your phone and sleeping at midnight. Then, you'll wake up five hours later to prepare and commute. If you're working mid-shift, you can sleep late and wake up later.
Pro #4: Your Morning is Open For Other Tasks.
One of the best things about working mid-shift is that your morning is open. You can do errands, go to an empty gym, study a new skill, and do other stuff while you still have the energy left for your work later.
Cons #1: Harder to Schedule Activities with Normal Shift People.
The first negative effect of working mid-shift is that you'll find it harder to schedule night activities with your friends and family. You'll miss many events because their dinner is your lunch.
Cons #2: You're Going Out During the Hot Hours.
While commuting is less hassle because of less traffic, unfortunately, you'll have to endure the hot summer sun. So, if you're commuting, you should always bring spare clothing to change from your sweat-drenched shirt.
Cons #3: Your Shift Will End at Dangerous Hours.
I had a couple of co-workers who were mugged because they lived in an unsafe neighborhood, and they went home late at night. So, the night differential or taxi allowance you enjoy is actually hazard pay.
Cons #4: It Goes With Some Health Concerns.
Like the health concerns you get from working the night shift, there are also health risks when working mid-shift. You may experience sleep disorders, a weaker immune system, and the risk of developing lifestyle-related diseases in the future.