First-come, first-served

First-come, first-served (in shift work): Principle where shifts are assigned to the first employee who claims them.

First-come, first-served

A principle in shift planning and self-scheduling where shifts are assigned to the employee who claims them first. This approach encourages promptness and allows for flexible work choices.

What is first-come, first-served

This is a method of shift assignment that enables employees to choose available shifts based on their preferences and availability. Rather than having a manager assign shifts, each team member can claim open slots as they see fit, promoting autonomy in their work schedules. For example, if a shift opens up due to an absence, employees who wish to work that shift can claim it immediately, and the first one to do so secures the spot.

This method is not without its drawbacks. It can lead to some employees consistently snagging the most desirable shifts while others may struggle to get hours, particularly in busy or competitive environments. Therefore, it’s essential to strike a balance between employee autonomy and fair distribution of opportunities.

To illustrate, imagine a retail store experiencing high demand during weekends. Using the first-come, first-served approach, employees may rush to claim Saturday shifts, potentially disadvantaging those who prefer quieter days or may not check their apps as frequently. While it emphasizes speed and personal choice, it can unintentionally create inequities among staff.

Understanding your team’s dynamics is crucial when implementing this system. It tends to work best in environments where employees are highly engaged and proactive. Continuous communication about available shifts and recognizing employees who contribute positively to the team can also enhance this approach. In essence, while first-come, first-served offers flexibility, it must be carefully managed to ensure it meets the needs of all employees.

Best practices

• Encourage all employees to regularly check for available shifts to maintain engagement and promote fairness.
• Provide transparency by communicating policies clearly, ensuring everyone understands how claiming works.
• Consider scheduling reminders or notifications to keep the process efficient without overwhelming your team.

Common pitfalls

• Don’t allow a few employees to monopolize the best shifts, which can demotivate others.
• Avoid patched shift assignments without clear policies, leading to confusion among team members.
• Refrain from underestimating employee availability; misunderstandings about who can work can create scheduling headaches.

How we can help

It can be a bit bewildering with so many options to manage your workforce, and not all apps fit every need. If you want to explore the first-come, first-served approach effectively, consider checking out our self-scheduling software, Zelos Team Management. We’re tirelessly working on making shift management smoother, and we invite you to sign up for a free account on our website to see if it meets your needs. Remember, we understand the challenges you face, and we’ve got your back!

Shift work glossary