Quickstart Guides
      Back to home
      1. Ideal Talent Marketplace Help Center
      2. Workers
      3. Quickstart Guides

      Working a Shift

      Key information of what you need to know when working a shift with Ideal.

      1. What are the work requirements during a shift?
        1. Work Requirements will be specified in the Ideal app for each shift (I.e., if you need to have a driver's license, or undergo any training).
      2. What happens if I need to cancel a shift?
        1. Ideal workers can cancel a shift up to the start time of the shift. However, a cancellation within 24 hours of the scheduled shift start time will be considered a late cancellation, which may result in disciplinary action in accordance with applicable policies (including but not limited to policies addressing attendance and leave entitlements).
        2. We understand that things can happen. If you need to cancel, please contact our customer support at  612-324-5281 or workersupport@ideal.com, and let them know why you aren’t able to make it to your shift.
      3. What happens if the company cancels the shift late?
        1. In the event the customer needs to cancel the shift late, within 24 hours of the scheduled start time, you as the Ideal worker will be compensated (3 hours’ worth of pay).
        2. Ideal Support will contact you if a shift has been cancelled by the company.
      4. What should I Wear?
        1. As an Ideal worker, please show up looking professional for your shift, and bring a positive attitude – first impressions matter! Additional requirements (specific shoes or clothing) will be specified in the Ideal app for each shift.
      5. What should I Bring?
        1. Bring your phone and make sure it’s charged, so that you can clock in and out for your shifts.
        2. Bring a form of identification (Driver's License or Government-issued Photo ID) to verify your identity.
        3. Please bring a water bottle to ensure you’re staying hydrated.
        4. If your shift is more than 6 hours e, you will receive a 30 minute unpaid meal break. You will be responsible for bringing your own food.
      6. What should I do when I arrive for a shift?
        1. Arrival instructions will be specified in the Ideal app for each shift. Upon arrival, please check in with the on-site manager listed in the app and be sure to wear your best smile when you introduce yourself! Don’t forget to let them know that you are an Ideal worker.
        2. Become familiar with your surroundings. Where are the restrooms, water fountains, emergency exits, etc.
        3. In the event you have immediate questions, or can’t find your shift manager, please contact customer support at  612-324-5281 or workersupport@ideal.com.
      7. How do I Clock In and Clock Out?
        1. Ideal workers are required to clock in prior to their assigned start time within the Ideal app and must clock out within the Ideal app when you go off duty.
        2. Ideal workers are required to clock out any time you leave the work site for any reason other than assigned work duties.
        3. Unless prior approval has been received from the shift manager, Ideal workers may not clock out more than 5 minutes prior to, or 10 minutes following the end of their work time (as listed in the shift posting). 
        4. Ideal workers will be paid to the minute.
        5. Prior permission to work beyond the scheduled shift end time should be approved by your shift manager.
        6. Workers will be paid from time sheets in the Ideal app. Workers must attest to their worked time and breaks taken when ending each shift.
        7. In the event that a clock out is not recorded, Ideal workers will be auto clocked out after 3 hours of their shift end time. The time clocked out at will be the scheduled shift end time. Any adjustments to the recorded time must be approved by contacting Ideal Customer Support. Ideal workers will be responsible for any manual changes.
      8. Do I Receive Breaks During my Shift?
        1. Ideal workers will receive a paid 15 minute rest break for every 4 hours worked. You will not need to clock out for rest breaks. You will attest that you took the break at the end of the shift within the app.
        2. Ideal workers will receive a 30 minute unpaid meal break for any shift over 6 hours.
        3. Ideal workers will receive a 10 minute grace period for clocking in after their meal break before they are considered late, which may result in disciplinary action.
      9. What happens if the organization sends me home early?
        1. Ideal workers will be paid for all hours worked. However, if you are dismissed within 3 hours of shift start, Ideal will provide a minimum of 3 hours pay for your time, or such time actually worked, whichever is greater.
      10. What should I do during a shift?
        1. Please check in with the shift manager at the start of the shift to go over instructions for your work. Make sure to check in with them if you have any questions as you are performing your duties, as well as at the end of the shift before you leave.
        2. Some workplaces will ask you to store your phone in a locker. Please only use your phone during a shift when you are using the Ideal app.
        3. Last but not least, remember to have fun and put your best face forward!
      11. What happens if there is an emergency?
        1. Contact Ideal support at  612-324-5281 or workersupport@ideal.com.
      12. What happens if you have a negative experience or observe something unusual?
          1. Your safety is our top priority! Please contact Ideal support asap at  612-324-5281 or workersupport@ideal.com. 
      13. What are my Performance Expectations?
        1. Ideal workers are considered late for the shift when the Ideal worker:
          1. Is more than 10 minutes late for their scheduled shift
          2. Leaves the shift more than 10 minutes prior to the end of their scheduled shift without prior approval from the on-site leader.
          3. Takes an extended meal or break period without approval.
        2. Ideal Workers are considered a “No Show” when you are more than 30 minutes late to their shift and the shift wasn’t cancelled prior to the shift start time. Disciplinary action may result. 
        3. We ask that you model the behavior that aligns with our community values:
          1. IDEAL
            1. Initiative: Taking proactive steps, being self-motivated, and showing a willingness to go above and beyond.
            2. Dependable: Being reliable and trustworthy, consistently delivering high quality work and meeting commitments.
            3. Enjoyment: Cultivating a workplace culture that values joy, enthusiasm, and a positive atmosphere.
            4. Ambitious: Having a strong desire to succeed.
            5. Learning Culture: Continuously seek, share, and apply new knowledge to improve individual performance.