Why do I receive notifications about available shifts but still end up on the waiting list in Instawork?
Overview of Instawork’s Waitlist Process
Instawork operates as a live marketplace where shifts are released in real-time and filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Shifts can be claimed rapidly, sometimes within seconds, which leads to situations where you may receive a notification about an available shift only to find yourself on the waiting list when you try to book it. This is because:
Multiple workers receive notifications simultaneously, but only one professional can secure the shift.
A spot on the waitlist becomes your fallback if the shift fills while you’re attempting to book it.
Reasons Behind Waitlisting
Several factors contribute to being placed on a waitlist:
Shift popularity: Shifts can be highly sought after and fill up quickly, especially in specific roles or locations.
Live marketplace dynamics: A shift might appear available while another user is simultaneously booking it, resulting in a temporary display delay.
Qualifications or preferences: Some shifts may be restricted and prioritized for workers with specific qualifications or prior approval.
Notifications about available shifts are designed to alert all potential candidates, but not every worker receiving the notification will secure the booking.
How to Improve Your Chances of Booking
Here are some actionable steps to increase your likelihood of securing a shift:
Act quickly: Keep your notifications enabled and respond immediately when alerted of an available shift.
Optimize your profile: - Update your skills, certifications, and preferences to better match job requirements. - Ensure your profile's details align with the shift's criteria.
Refresh the app: If a shift appears unavailable when you try to book it, refresh the app or check back after a few minutes in case it reopens.
Understand your eligibility: Regularly review your shift access to ensure you meet the qualifications for roles in your region. Use the Shift Access feature in the app to track your eligibility.
Check frequently: Proactively browse available shifts in the app to find newly posted opportunities. Shifts are posted frequently and may not always come with notifications.
Related Topics
If you experience ongoing issues with booking shifts or understanding waitlist mechanics, you may consider:
Reviewing app notifications and settings
Confirming eligibility status for certain shift categories
Learning about Instawork’s shift assignment policies through the “Help” section of the app.