How to Stay Productive After a Layoff: Essential Tips for Office Professional Job Seekers

person looking for a job online

Experiencing a layoff can be unsettling, especially when it impacts your office career. However, this transition also presents an opportunity to reassess your goals, sharpen your skills, and explore new office job opportunities. At Keystaff Professionals, we specialize in connecting talented office professionals with temporary, temp-to-hire, and permanent roles designed to match their skills and career goals.

Reflect and Refocus Your Office Career Goals

Start by reflecting on what kind of office roles best suit your skills and professional passions. Whether you’re interested in administrative assistant positions, customer service roles, or specialized office support like executive assistants and accounting clerks, identifying your priorities will help target your job search effectively.

Build Relevant Skills for Office Jobs

Use this time productively by updating and expanding your office skills. Platforms like Microsoft Office, QuickBooks, or specialized CRM software training can enhance your employability. Certification in these tools often distinguishes candidates in office temp job pools.

The Three-Step Networking Framework for Office Professionals

  1. Make an Announcement: Update your LinkedIn or professional networks with clear information about your job search and the office roles you’re seeking.
  2. Individual Outreach: Reach out to former colleagues, supervisors, and professional contacts to gather insights and potential leads in office roles.
  3. Exploratory Conversations: Arrange informational interviews or brief chats with office managers or recruiters to understand current office job market demands.

Networking within the office professional community can uncover unadvertised opportunities and widen your career prospects.

Create a Focused Daily Routine Using the 90-Minute Rule

Maximize your productivity by dedicating focused 90-minute blocks to essential job search activities. Start your day with tasks like customizing resumes for office roles or drafting cover letters. Follow with networking outreach and skill-building sessions using online tutorials relevant to office administration, data entry, or customer support.

Maintain Your Financial and Emotional Wellbeing

Evaluate your financial situation carefully and engage in stress-reducing activities. Keeping your mental and physical health in check is crucial for sustained job search effectiveness.

How Keystaff Professionals Can Help Office Job Seekers

At Keystaff Professionals, we offer access to a broad network of office temp jobs, temp-to-hire assignments, and direct hire opportunities. Our recruiters specialize in office staffing solutions, assisting candidates with resume reviews, interview preparation, and personalized job matching. Temporary office roles provide immediate income, skill development, and a flexible work schedule, helping bridge gaps and open doors to permanent office careers.

Whether you’re looking for administrative positions, receptionist roles, data entry jobs, or office management opportunities, partnering with a dedicated office staffing agency like Keystaff Professionals gives you a clear advantage in a competitive job market.

Stay Positive and Persistent

Job searching after a layoff takes perseverance. Celebrate small accomplishments, stay connected professionally, and embrace learning opportunities. With the right mindset and the support of an office staffing agency, your next office role is closer than you think.

At Keystaff Professionals, we’re committed to helping office professionals turn layoffs into new beginnings. Contact us today to explore office temp jobs and staffing services tailored to your career goals.

Why Office, HR & Accounting Professionals in the Twin Cities Stay—or Leave

Office manager having meeting with staff

The Twin Cities are home to a bustling hub of administrative, human resources, and accounting roles—from executive assistants and payroll specialists to HR generalists and accounts payable pros. Yet, retaining top-tier clerical and office personnel remains a challenge.

At KeyStaff Professionals, a division of Midwest Staffing Group, we’ve spent decades building deep relationships across Minnesota’s professional staffing landscape. Our mission: to understand why office-based professionals stay—and why they move on.

Why Office and Accounting Staff Often Leave

  • Lack of Career Progression
    Many administrative, HR, and accounting professionals desire growth—whether it’s mastering new systems, stepping into supervisory roles, or expanding into strategic functions. Without visible pathways, stagnation quickly sets in.
  • Feeling Overlooked in the Back Office
    It’s not uncommon for vital roles like clerical support or payroll processing to go unnoticed. Yet simple recognition—an email, team call-out, or sincere thanks—can significantly uplift morale.
  • Cloudy Expectations and Weak Feedback Loops
    In roles driven by precision and deadlines, unclear responsibilities or feedback can foster frustration. Professionals want clarity—where they stand, what’s expected, and how they’re performing.

What Keeps Office Professionals Motivated

  • Clear Communication & Trust
    Supportive managers who provide frequent, transparent feedback build trust and reinforce staff commitment.
  • Professional Development Opportunities
    Whether through training on the latest HR software, Excel mastery, or cross-training in finance functions, growth is a key retention lever.
  • Meaningful Recognition
    Celebrating someone’s accuracy in month-end closes or responsiveness to employee inquiries shows that detail-oriented work truly matters.
  • Purpose and Work-Life Balance
    A stable, supportive office environment where tasks are imbued with strategic purpose goes a long way in maintaining engagement.

How KeyStaff Professionals Supports Retention in Office Roles

  • Deep Twin Cities Expertise
    With over 30 years of experience through Midwest Staffing Group, and over 40 combined years of recruiting know-how, KeyStaff understands the Twin Cities’ office staffing dynamics inside out.
  • Specialized Office Staffing Solutions
    Whether you need contract staffing, contract-to-hire, or direct placements in Administrative, HR, or Accounting & Finance, KeyStaff delivers tailored matches.
  • Personalized Candidate and Client Experience
    The team takes time to understand both candidate goals and organizational culture—ensuring a match for skill and fit. As one HR client shared: “KeyStaff Professionals provide thoroughness that is very rare… they truly listen… the entire staffing process is managed at a very high level.”
  • Compliance, Support, and Trust
    Built on Midwest Staffing’s infrastructure, KeyStaff manages background screenings, payroll, compliance, and more, so employers can focus on supporting office teams.

Recommendations for Employers in the Twin Cities

ChallengeStrategy
Staff stuck in admin routinesDefine skill-building paths or cross-functional goals
Employees feel undervaluedShine a spotlight on successes and dependability
Communication breakdownsHost regular check-ins or email updates
Hiring gaps in office functionsUse contract-to-hire for flexibility and evaluation

Final Thoughts

The backbone of many Minnesota businesses lies in their office—whether HR, accounting, or administrative. Retaining professionals in these roles starts with clarity, development, recognition, and purpose.

KeyStaff Professionals, rooted in Twin Cities tradition and fueled by Midwest Staffing’s experience, is your partner in building that workplace—a place where office experts aren’t just employees, but valued team members.

👉 Discover how to keep your clerical, HR, and finance teams engaged: visit keystaffpro.com

New Federal Legislation Makes Temp Staffing Smarter and More Affordable

New Federal Legislation Makes Temp Staffing Smarter and More Affordable

Big news is shaking up the staffing world — and it’s coming straight from Washington. President Trump’s newly signed “Big Beautiful Bill” is designed to boost American productivity, modernize hiring, and empower the workforce. For businesses relying on temporary office and administrative professionals, and for the candidates stepping into those roles, this bill is packed with positive change.

At Keystaff Professionals, we specialize in connecting top-tier administrative talent with the businesses that need them. Here’s how this legislation benefits both sides of the desk — from entry-level receptionists to experienced executive assistants, and from small businesses to corporate offices.

💼 Incentives for Hiring Through Staffing Firms

One of the biggest wins in the bill? Companies hiring through certified staffing agencies now qualify for tax credits and wage subsidies, making it more cost-effective to hire skilled office support staff on a temporary or temp-to-hire basis.

What this means for employers:
You can maintain operational efficiency without stretching your budget — especially during peak seasons, transitions, or special projects.

What this means for candidates:
Expect more administrative job openings, better hourly rates, and increased chances for long-term placement.

📋 Simplified Compliance for Office Roles

Administrative and clerical roles often come with strict onboarding, confidentiality, and data compliance requirements. Under the new bill, the burden of compliance for short-term roles has been streamlined — especially when using trusted agencies like Keystaff Professionals.

For businesses:
You can expand your team faster with less red tape, while still meeting all required HR standards.

For professionals:
Less paperwork, faster start dates, and more seamless placement experiences.

📚 Government-Backed Upskilling for Admin Talent

The Big Beautiful Bill includes federal funding for training programs — especially in software skills, digital communication, and remote office tools like Microsoft 365, CRM platforms, and Zoom. Keystaff Professionals can now connect candidates with upskilling opportunities while placing them in real-world roles.

For clients:
You gain access to a more tech-savvy talent pool that’s ready to hit the ground running.

For candidates:
Level up your skills, grow your resume, and improve your chances of landing higher-paying roles — all while working.

🧑‍💻 Embracing the New Flexible Office Model

With support for remote, hybrid, and gig-style administrative roles, the bill modernizes how office work is viewed and staffed. Businesses can now take full advantage of virtual assistants, part-time data entry help, or seasonal administrative support without long-term commitments.

Businesses win with staffing flexibility.
Candidates win with more control over how and where they work.

The Keystaff Advantage

At Keystaff Professionals, we’re already helping our clients and candidates navigate this new landscape. Whether you need a temporary receptionist for a week or a contract executive assistant for a quarter, now is the time to take advantage of the cost savings and talent access this bill makes possible.

And if you’re a job seeker with office, customer service, or admin experience? There’s never been a better time to work with a professional staffing agency.

Let’s Build Your Team — or Your Career — Together

Reach out to Keystaff Professionals today and find out how President Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill is opening doors to smarter staffing and better opportunities.

The US-China Tariff War’s Ripple Effect on the Clerical Industry: Workforce Strategies for 2025

The US-China Tariff War’s Ripple Effect on the Clerical Industry: Workforce Strategies for 2025 Keystaff Professionals

The US-China tariff war continues to disrupt global supply chains, but its impact extends beyond manufacturing floors. For clerical and administrative teams across the Midwest, the trade conflict has intensified workforce challenges-from compliance complexity to AI-driven skill shifts. Here’s how businesses can adapt, with insights from staffing experts like Keystaff Professionals.

How Tariffs Reshape Clerical Work

  1. Compliance Overload
    New tariffs and retaliatory measures require meticulous documentation, customs coordination, and regulatory reporting-tasks increasingly falling to administrative teams. 52% of HR professionals cite communication breakdowns as a major obstacle in talent acquisition, exacerbating delays in hiring compliance-savvy staff (Gallup).
  2. Cost-Control Demands
    Rising material costs force clerical teams to track tariff-related expenses, renegotiate supplier contracts, and manage budget adjustments. 30% of organizations list economic uncertainty as a top challenge, driving demand for clerical staff skilled in financial analytics and procurement (Panther Group).
  3. AI and Automation Pressures
    39% of clerical skill sets are expected to become outdated by 2030, with roles like data entry clerks and administrative assistants among the fastest-declining. AI tools now handle tasks like invoice processing, pushing clerical workers toward higher-value roles requiring analytical thinking and AI collaboration skills (WEF).

The 2025 Clerical Workforce Challenge

  • Skill Gaps: 63% of employers cite skill gaps as the biggest barrier to transformation, with demand rising for clerical staff proficient in AI tools, regulatory compliance, and cross-border communication (SHRM).
  • Attrition Risks: 32% of employers fear talent retention issues as clerical roles evolve, requiring new strategies to upskill and engage employees (Eastridge).
  • Hybrid Work Complexity: Remote teams managing tariff-related logistics need cloud-based collaboration tools and digital security training to mitigate risks (Wiley).

Why Clerical Roles Are Critical in 2025

  • Risk Mitigation: Clerical teams ensure tariff-related fines or delays don’t derail operations.
  • Cost Visibility: Administrative staff provide real-time data to guide reshoring or automation decisions.
  • Regulatory Agility: With stricter labor laws and AI regulations looming, skilled clerks help businesses adapt swiftly.

Partnering with Keystaff Professionals

With 40+ years of Midwest staffing expertise, Keystaff connects businesses to:

  • AI-literate administrative assistants
  • Bilingual compliance coordinators
  • Contract specialists for tariff-driven procurement needs.

Learn more: Keystaff Professionals

Final Takeaway
The tariff war underscores the clerical industry’s evolving role as a strategic partner in risk management and cost control. By leveraging staffing experts like Keystaff Professionals, businesses can build clerical teams equipped for 2025’s hybrid, AI-driven, and compliance-heavy landscape.

How to Ask for a Raise and Actually Get It: A 4 Step Guide

How to Ask for a Raise and Actually Get It: A Step-by-Step Guide from Keystaff Professionals

Asking for a raise can feel daunting, but it’s a crucial skill for career advancement. Here’s a concise guide to help you prepare and succeed in your request.

Understanding Your Value

Research Salary Trends

Use tools like Indeed Salaries, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn Salary Insights to understand what professionals with your job title typically earn in your area. This data will help you make a strong case for your raise. For more information on using these tools effectively, visit Peak Performers.

Determine Your Target Increase

Most annual raises are around 3%, but you might aim higher based on your contributions and market position. Consider asking for 3-10% more if you’re significantly underpaid.

Building Your Case

Document Your Achievements

List your accomplishments since your last salary adjustment, focusing on work that has added significant value to the company. Quantify your contributions whenever possible. For tips on highlighting your strengths, see Robert Half.

Consider Your Qualifications

Highlight your experience, specialized skills, and additional responsibilities. These factors enhance your value to the employer.

Timing Your Request

Choose the Right Moment

Request a raise during your performance review, after completing a successful project, or when the company is financially strong. Avoid stressful periods for the business.

Schedule a Private Meeting

Request a private meeting with your manager, ideally in person or via video call.

Preparing Your Pitch

Craft and Rehearse Your Script

Write out what you plan to say and practice until you feel confident. Avoid words that undermine your position, such as “believe” or “think.” For insights into negotiation strategies, check out Kalzumeus.

Dress for Success

Even in casual workplaces, dress slightly more formally for the meeting.

The Conversation

Start With a Clear Purpose

Begin by stating why you’re there and present your case clearly:

“Thank you for meeting with me. I’d like to discuss my salary based on my recent contributions and market research. I believe my salary should be adjusted to [X% or $X] to [your new salary].”

Handle Responses and Negotiation

Be prepared for questions and potential negotiation. If denied, ask what you can improve on and consider alternative benefits like additional time off or professional development opportunities. For more on negotiation tactics, see Reddit.

Conclusion

Requesting a raise is about advocating for your professional worth. By preparing thoroughly and presenting your case confidently, you can significantly improve your chances of success. Remember, even if your first request isn’t successful, you’re building important negotiation skills for future discussions.

Remote Work Trends 2025: Hybrid Models & Flexible Staffing

Remote Work Trends 2025: Hybrid Models & Flexible Staffing at Keystaff Professionals

As we delve into 2025, the landscape of remote work continues to evolve, driven by technological advancements, shifting employee expectations, and strategic business decisions. Here are the key trends shaping the future of work across various sectors, including Administrative, Accounting & Finance, Human Resources, Engineering, Construction Management, and Customer Service.

Hybrid Work Models: The New Norm

Hybrid work arrangements are becoming increasingly prevalent, with 53% of remote-capable employees preferring a mix of in-office and remote days3. This approach allows for flexibility while maintaining team cohesion and collaboration. Companies like General Motors are embracing hybrid models, recognizing their value in retaining top talent2.

Technological Advancements

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming remote work by automating tasks and enhancing productivity. 75% of employees are already using AI tools, which enable them to focus on high-value projects1. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are also being used to create immersive team experiences, improving remote collaboration1.

Freelance and Flexible Workforce

Freelancers are projected to become the majority of the workforce by 2027, offering businesses access to specialized skills on demand1. This shift highlights the growing importance of flexible staffing solutions in meeting fluctuating business needs.

Cybersecurity and Remote Work

As remote work increases, cybersecurity remains a top priority. Companies are adopting zero-trust security models and investing in employee training to mitigate risks1.

Keystaff’s Perspective

At Keystaff Professionals, we understand these trends and are adapting our strategies to support clients across Administrative, Accounting & Finance, Human Resources, Engineering, Construction Management, and Customer Service sectors. We recognize the value of hybrid models and flexible staffing solutions in meeting the evolving needs of our clients. While we continue to focus on traditional placements, we are also exploring opportunities for remote and hybrid roles, ensuring our clients have access to the best talent regardless of location.

As the remote work landscape continues to evolve, Keystaff remains committed to providing insights and solutions that help businesses thrive in this dynamic environment. Whether you’re navigating hybrid work models, leveraging AI for efficiency, or addressing cybersecurity concerns, we’re here to support your staffing needs with expertise tailored to your industry.

Citations:

  1. https://www.moo.com/blog/inspiration/future-remote-working-2025
  2. https://www.shrm.org/topics-tools/news/all-things-work/will-workplace-look-like-2025
  3. https://www.oysterhr.com/library/status-of-remote-work-in-2025
  4. https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/insights/research/remote-work-statistics-and-trends
  5. https://sloanreview.mit.edu/article/five-hybrid-work-trends-to-watch-in-2025/
  6. https://www.forbes.com/sites/niritcohen/2025/01/05/the-future-of-work-we-predicted-for-2025-what-actually-happened/
  7. https://www.reddit.com/r/Futurology/comments/1g7mifl/70_of_employers_to_crack_down_on_remote_work_in/
  8. https://www.cnbc.com/2025/02/02/whats-in-store-for-remote-work-and-rto-in-2025.html

Minnesota’s Preventing Pay Discrimination Act: What Employers Need to Know

As of January 1, 2024, Minnesota has implemented a new law aimed at promoting pay equity—the Preventing Pay Discrimination Act. This legislation prohibits employers from asking job applicants about their salary history, ensuring that wages are based on qualifications, experience, and industry standards rather than previous earnings. By removing salary history from hiring decisions, the law helps close wage gaps and foster fair compensation practices.

For details on the official statute, visit the Minnesota Department of Human Rights.

What Employers Need to Know

To comply with this new law, Minnesota employers must:

Eliminate salary history inquiries – Employers can no longer ask candidates about their past wages, either directly or through a third party.

Set pay based on job qualifications – Compensation must be determined by factors such as skills, experience, education, and market conditions rather than an applicant’s prior earnings.

Adopt transparent pay structures – Employers should develop clear salary guidelines that justify pay decisions and promote equitable compensation.

Consider pay transparency in job postings – While not legally required, including salary ranges in job listings demonstrates a commitment to fairness and can help attract top talent.

How KeyStaff Supports Employers

At Midwest Staffing, we help businesses navigate these new regulations while streamlining the hiring process. Here’s how we ensure compliance and support fair hiring practices:

Transparent Hiring Practices – We assist companies in developing clear, structured pay frameworks that align with compliance requirements and market expectations.

Industry Market Insights – Our expertise in workforce trends enables employers to set competitive and equitable salaries without relying on past compensation data.

Candidate Screening – We evaluate applicants based on skills, experience, and cultural fit, ensuring that pay decisions are fair and unbiased.

Strategic Talent Placement – We connect businesses with highly qualified candidates, helping them build strong teams while adhering to fair pay practices.

By partnering with KeyStaff Professionals, companies can confidently comply with Minnesota’s salary history ban while attracting and retaining top talent. Contact us today to learn how we can help you navigate this change and enhance your hiring strategy! 🚀

Workforce Trends 2025: Skills-Based Hiring and Shifting Demographics — How Temp Agencies Lead the Way

Workforce Trends 2025: Skills-Based Hiring and Shifting Demographics — How Temp Agencies Lead the Way

As we approach 2025, the workforce landscape is poised for significant transformations. Two prominent developments include the rise in skills-based hiring and shifting workplace demographics. Understanding these trends is crucial for both employers and job seekers, particularly in roles such as accountants, bookkeepers, customer service representatives, and office clerks. Temporary staffing agencies are well-positioned to facilitate these transitions, offering valuable support to businesses and professionals alike.

Prediction: Skills-Based Hiring Needs Will Increase

The traditional emphasis on formal qualifications is giving way to a focus on specific skills and competencies. This shift enables employers to identify candidates who can immediately contribute, regardless of their educational background. A recent survey indicates that 81% of employers are now utilizing some form of skills-based hiring, a significant increase from previous years. (TestGorilla)

In professions like accounting and bookkeeping, this trend underscores the importance of proficiency in areas such as financial software, data analysis, and regulatory compliance. Similarly, customer service representatives and office clerks are expected to demonstrate strong communication abilities, technological adeptness, and problem-solving skills.

Trend: Workplace Demographics Will Continue to Shift

The composition of the workforce is evolving, influenced by factors such as aging populations, increased diversity, and changing generational dynamics. These shifts necessitate adaptable hiring strategies and inclusive workplace cultures. Employers are recognizing the value of diverse perspectives and experiences, leading to more inclusive recruitment and retention practices. (Forbes)

For roles like customer service representatives and office clerks, this means workplaces will become more varied in terms of age, cultural backgrounds, and experiences. Employers will need to foster environments that accommodate and leverage this diversity to enhance team performance and innovation.

The Role of Temporary Staffing Agencies

Temporary staffing agencies are instrumental in navigating these workforce changes. They offer several advantages:

  • Access to Diverse Talent Pools: Staffing agencies maintain extensive networks of candidates with varied skills and backgrounds, enabling employers to find individuals who meet specific needs.
  • Flexibility in Hiring: As companies adjust to shifting demographics and skill requirements, temp agencies provide the flexibility to scale the workforce up or down, ensuring alignment with current demands.
  • Expertise in Skills Assessment: These agencies specialize in evaluating candidates’ competencies, ensuring that placements are based on actual skills rather than solely on formal qualifications.
  • Support for Workforce Integration: By understanding demographic trends, staffing agencies can assist in creating inclusive environments that embrace diversity, enhancing team cohesion and productivity.

In conclusion, the anticipated increase in skills-based hiring and the ongoing shifts in workplace demographics present both challenges and opportunities. Temporary staffing agencies serve as valuable partners in this evolving landscape, helping businesses adapt and thrive by connecting them with skilled, diverse talent tailored to their specific needs.

WHY TEMPORARY HOLIDAY JOBS ARE IDEAL FOR STUDENTS

Temporary holiday work benefits for students

For students, the holiday season isn’t just about festivities; it’s also the perfect time to take advantage of temporary job opportunities. These seasonal roles come with benefits tailored to students’ needs, from flexible schedules to skill-building experiences. Here’s why temporary holiday work is a win-win for students.

Flexible student holiday work options

Freedom to Fit Your Schedule

Temporary holiday jobs offer unmatched flexibility, making it easy for students to balance work with their academic commitments. Many roles allow part-time or weekend shifts, and some even offer evening hours, which are perfect for those with packed daytime schedules.

Hands-On Learning Opportunities

Seasonal roles provide more than just a paycheck. Students can gain practical experience in various fields like retail, customer service, or logistics. This hands-on exposure builds transferable skills like problem-solving, communication, and time management—qualities that future employers value.

Boost Your Holiday Budget with temporary Holiday work

Boost Your Holiday Budget

Extra expenses like gifts, travel, and outings can strain a student’s wallet during the holidays. A temporary job ensures they have the funds to enjoy the season without financial stress. Some companies even offer holiday bonuses, adding to the allure of seasonal work.

Expand Your Social and Professional Network

Meeting new people is another perk of temporary work. Students often forge connections with coworkers and supervisors, which could lead to future job recommendations or long-term career opportunities.

Beginner-Friendly Roles

Most seasonal jobs require minimal prior experience, making them ideal for students stepping into the workforce for the first time. Popular options include:

  • Retail sales associates
  • Holiday event staff
  • JR. Accountants
  • HR Associates
  • Customer support agents

Check out more roles and availabilities on our careers page by clicking here.

Enjoy Seasonal Perks

Seasonal positions often come with additional benefits. Students can enjoy discounts on merchandise, free meals, or even tickets to festive events, making their jobs even more rewarding.

Key Tips for Landing a Job

  • Apply Early: Employers hire well before the peak season.
  • Tailor Your Resume: Highlight relevant skills like reliability and customer service.
  • Prepare for Interviews: Be ready to demonstrate enthusiasm and adaptability.

Let us help with all of the the above! All you need to do it Apply here!

Conclusion

Temporary holiday jobs provide students with more than just extra cash—they open doors to new experiences, connections, and opportunities. Whether it’s gaining valuable skills, building a network, or enjoying the perks of seasonal work, these roles are a perfect fit for students looking to make the most of the holiday season.

EFFECTS OF EXTENDED WORK SHIFTS ON EMPLOYEE HEALTH & PRODUCTIVITY

EFFECTS OF EXTENDED WORK SHIFTS ON EMPLOYEE HEALTH & PRODUCTIVITY

Most of us are familiar with jobs offering overtime hours extending beyond a 40-hour work week. For entrepreneurs and employees creating their schedule, working long hours is often the norm, making it difficult to disengage mentally from work. In turn many employees. Electronic devices intended to increase productivity are being used throughout the day, evening, and on weekends for work-related responsibilities. There are great benefits in using technology, yet it’s crucial to diligently balance work and social life. Whether you work a fixed schedule or different hours of the day employee safety begins with education. Taking positive steps when working extended hours promotes health, safety, and work productivity.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) comments on long work shifts, “According to U.S. National Health Interview data from 2010, almost 19% of working adults work 48 hour or more per week and over 7% worked 60 hours or more. Both shift work and long work hours have been associated with health and safety risks.” Sleep deprivation can affect concentration, alertness, mood, and general health. Attentiveness to details is critical in certain occupations like nursing, chemists, pharmacists, employees operating heavy machinery, and others. Feeling tired, stressed, fatigued, or burnout not only affects work performance, but also safety concerns for yourself and others.  

The University of Surrey documents a study by the Journal of Science on the effects of sleep loss on various brain regions. “Research has significant implications for our understanding of how the brain is locally affected by internal time of day and sleep-wake cycles.  Results shed light on why shift workers and people working very long hours struggle to pay attention and concentrate on their job, in particular in the early morning hours,” documents The University of Surrey. Working extended hours coupled with consistent lack of sleep can only raise health concerns. When working overtime hours, consider ways to ensure adequate sleep and proper nutrition each day. Accommodate your work schedule to allow times of relaxation. Perhaps take a power nap during one of your breaks or enjoy a 15-minute meditation? The idea is to find creative ways to take breaks, eat nutritious foods, and get adequate sleep each night when working extended hours.

5 TIPS WHEN WORKING OVERTIME HOURS:

1. Don’t skip meals. Healthy foods fuel your body and mind. When working long hours, it’s important to fuel the brain and body with nutritious foods.

2. Take a break. Disconnecting for a few minutes can increase creativity and focus.

3. Maintain a regular sleep schedule. To be your most productive and keep mentally sharp it’s vital to get a good night’s rest. If having trouble sleeping early, refrain from having caffeine in the later afternoon.  

4. Make times for activities that bring joy. Lasting success is grounded with balance. Hobbies and activities that create meaning, joy, and purpose enhance mood.

5. If overwhelmed talk with your employer. If you feel exhausted and depleted with all the job responsibilities, voice your concerns. At times the employer is not fully aware of the workload or how you’re coping with working extended hours. If you’re feeling burnout be sure to express your concerns to your supervisor. 

*This article is for inforamtional purposes only and not intended to direct health advice. For health questions please inquire with your physician.