Are you checking work emails at 6am?

What time do you wake up in the morning? According to the latest study from CV-Library, the UK independent job board, the majority (72.7%) of engineering professionals wake up at 6am for work every day, with a further 70.5% stating that they get just six hours sleep a night.

The study of 2,000 UK professionals found that only 29.6% of workers in the sector get the recommended eight hours of sleep per night, with 54.6% even admitting that they wake up as early as 5am every day. 

The study went on to ask respondents what they like to do with their time before work, with the average morning routine including the following: 

• Catching up on work emails (45.2%)
• Reading the latest news (33.3%)
• Checking social media (21.4%)
• Scheduling the day (19%)
• Spending time with loved ones (19%)

Alongside this, 16.7% said they work out, 14.3% walk their dog and 14.3% text their partner.

Lee Biggins, founder and CEO of  CV-Library comments: “Let’s face it – not everyone can be a morning person – and for some people, the prospect of doing anything but eating your breakfast before work can seem a bit much.

“However, our research suggests that ‘successful’ people tend to wake up earlier, despite getting less than the recommended amount of sleep. 

“Naturally, you’re going to pack a lot more into your day if you make the most of the early hours, but only if you’re fully awake and ready to be productive.

“Tasks like working out or meditating can set you up for a great day ahead, but there’s no use trying to start a routine that’s not sustainable in the long run.”   

Interestingly, 59.1% of engineering professionals don’t think that waking up early benefits your career.

However, of those that do, 73.3% said it helps them to get ahead with their tasks for the day, 40% said it makes them feel more awake and ready for the day and 33.3% said it improves their work-life balance. 

Biggins continues: “Getting the right amount of sleep can help you to stay healthy, alert and ready to tackle the day ahead.

“You’ll naturally feel happier, stay calm under pressure and forge positive relationships in the workplace.

“If you’re thinking of shaking up your routine, make sure you’re waking up early for the right reasons; if you’re doing it to crack on with your work before the day has even begun this might be counter-productive and could suggest it’s time to find a new job altogether!”