What Your Employer Will Never Tell You

The number of employees with side jobs is on the rise because people just can’t make it on one paycheck. The only answer for many people is to run a business on the side or take a second, part time job. While many employers encourage employees to seek outside employment, others are worried that a second job will affect job performance. Some are even worried that an employee may take a position with a competitor or start up a competing business.

If you have thought about taking a part time job or opening your own business, you should pay attention to the following tips to side step problems with your employer.

Did you sign a contract when you started working for your current employer? Many companies require that new hires sign a non-compete contract. This contract basically says that you cannot work for or start a competing business within a certain mile radius of the company. Some contracts are even more limited. Be sure to read any contractual paperwork that you signed when you were hired before taking employment elsewhere.

If you do take a second job, you should never allow it to interfere with your current work. Do not perform second job functions while on the clock at your first job. Never answer or make phone calls, answer emails or perform job duties. If an emergency happens, take personal time or vacation time from your primary position to take care of it. Try not to make this routine though.

You should even avoid networking for side jobs while you’re on the clock. Granted, it can be tempting to speak up when an opportunity arises especially if you own your own business. Always try to down play your additional employment while clocked in. You can always go back later and talk about your other business.

If holding two jobs proves to be more than you can handle, you should seriously think about quitting your second job. If you cannot quit the second job due to financial commitments, there are other avenues that you can consider. Can you ask for a raise or find a new job that pays more? Is there anything that you can do to cut down your work schedule?

Side jobs of the entrepreneurial nature are especially difficult to juggle. Prioritize and be ready to negotiate with your current employer when your business takes off. It takes effort to keep things balanced, but it can be done if you prioritize and put your bread and butter job first.