In this article, we take a closer look at the concept of shift bidding. What it is, how it works and the best ways businesses can benefit from it.
What is a shift bid?
A shift bid is when employees have the opportunity to bid on available shifts based on their preferences and qualifications.
Instead of managers assigning shifts, employees “bid” for the ones they prefer. This gives them more say in their schedules, and you more time to focus on running the business. Win-win, right?
It’s especially useful if you’ve got:
- A flexible workforce (think: hospitality, retail, healthcare)
- Shifts that vary a lot
- Staff who value work-life balance or have other commitments
But it’s not a free-for-all. There are clear steps and rules behind it.
How does shift bidding work?
Here’s how the process looks, step by step, from your side and theirs.
Step 1: You post available shifts
You decide what shifts need covering and when. These go into your shift management system (or spreadsheet, if you’re still old school), marked as open for bidding.
Include key details like:
- Date and time
- Role needed
- Location (if relevant)
- Any skill or certification required
Step 2: Employees place their bids
Team members log in and bid for the shifts they want. Some systems let them:
- Rank their preferences (e.g. 1st choice, 2nd choice)
- Only bid on shifts they’re qualified for
- Add comments or notes (e.g. “happy to work late if needed”)
This part gives staff some control which is great for morale and flexibility.
Step 3: You review and approve bids
Once everyone’s had a chance to bid, you or your managers review the list. Most systems will help you:
- See who’s qualified and available
- Spot any shift gaps or double-ups
- Prioritise based on company rules (e.g. seniority, fairness, hours worked)
You then lock in the final shift.
