Because my role requires shift work, I am sometimes on duty overnight, and during those long but busy hours, you often find yourself thinking about your next meal.

“What shall we order?” is probably the most common opening for any casual conversation among my co-workers. Deciding gives people a chance to chat and make suggestions, and is also a golden opportunity for all us to try out a wide range of different cuisines. For example, during my first few overnight shifts, I developed a taste for the famous roast chicken dishes sold near Wanchai area. In fact, I credit them for helping me get to know my new colleagues, giving me energy and extra nutrients and – eventually – a reason to buy new trousers in a bigger waist size.

Working with people who are on rotating shifts is definitely challenging. You do, though, interact with different supervisors and more co-workers, and that can help in learning about the business and the “tricks” needed to handle assignments more effectively. Another plus, not available to colleagues on the day shift, is being able to watch live broadcasts of late-night football matches during our breaks - unfortunately, though, without any alcoholic beverages.