A second job, side hustles, part-time jobs, or a start up. These are all things that many fully employed people consider. Maybe it is to make more money, or invest in your future, or to pursue a hobby or interest that could also net you some cash. No matter the reason, there are a few things to consider about how this might affect your career or current job.
1. Company Policy on a Second Job
Does your company have any rules against getting a second job? Many organizations want to ensure that their employees are fully committed to them. A second job will take up some of your time and energy, even if it is just for a few hours here and there. Sometimes a company will allow a part-time job but will limit the type of work you can do, especially if it is the same type of work or would be in direct competition to what you do for them. Talk to your HR department and review your employee contract first.
Martin Thomas, an accomplished logistics manager, had been with a company for several years before he followed his life-long dream of becoming a stand-up comic. He took some classes and started performing on the weekends at a local comedy club. He was really good and started to make a name for himself. His friend posted one of his sets on YouTube and some of his co-workers saw it. When the owner of the company he worked for found out, he told Thomas he’d have to choose. He was concerned that Thomas’s international clients might not take him serious enough if they learned of his second career. Thomas was very disappointed but he understood where his boss was coming from and chose to retire his short-lived comedy carer.
Make sure that a second job will boost your income or quality of life, not hurt your career.
2. Will Your Second Job Help You With Your Career?
There are many opportunities where a side hustle could really benefit your primary career. If you are gaining valuable skills and making contacts and connections, then it could be a win-win. Many teachers tutor on the side or take summer jobs when school is not in session.
If you have a desk job where you don’t get the chance to socialize much, a second job in customer service might be a great opportunity for you to interact with people and build on your communication skills.
3. Can You Turn Your Hobby Into a Second Job?
Working full time and building your career doesn’t always leave a lot of time for hobbies and interests. If your primary motivation for a second job is money, why not do something you love? If you have to work more, it will be easier to accomplish if you love what you are doing. The extra income you earn could also help support your hobby. For example, if you are into mountain biking you could work at a bicycle shop selling and repairing bikes. If you really like a particular clothing store you could work there to take advantage of the employee discount.
Ideally, your second job should provide some benefits in addition to the extra money.
4. How Hard Do You Want To Work?
Be honest with yourself and take a good look at your current situation. If your full time job requires long hours, travel, or has an unpredictable schedule, taking on something else might not work very easily. Or you might have to pursue part-time work that is really flexible and doesn’t require a committed schedule. Free lance work, writing, or working from home are some good options. If you choose a service oriented job like bar tending or retail, you will have to deal with a constantly changing schedule, which might not work for your already busy life. Plus, how many hours a week do you really want to work anyway? Maintaining a good work-life balance is also really important for your physical and mental health.
The Wrap Up
If you are considering a second job and have though about the above factors then it’s certainly worth a try.
As long as you plan properly,a part-time job can have several professional and financial benefits. Just be sure you have also considered all the potential drawbacks and checked that your full time job allows it.
We’d love to hear about your successes with a second job or what type of part-time work most appeals to you. Let us know in the comments. We are always on the look out for professional success stories. Our readers could also really benefit from hearing about your experiences that didn’t go so well, your obstacles, and how you dealt with them. Did you pursue a second job that didn’t work out? What happened?
Happy Career Hunting! We are here for you!
Need more job search advice?
Join Our Discussion
For more insights and a community of like-minded professionals join our LinkedIn group Resume Help and Advice for Professionals and Executives
