More and more companies are evolving to meet the needs of the shifting workforce, and this includes offering flexible hours and an increase in telecommuting. This might include working part time for two different employers, working one full-time job and one part-time job, working pro bono in one’s free time oHowever, there are major advantages to holding multiple jobs (examples of multiple jobs may be: working part time at two places, working a full time job and a part time job, working pro bono or donating time, and less common is working in two different positions in one company).
Quick quiz:
- Have you ever wished that you made more money?
- Do you like the idea of networking and feeling connected in multiple places?
- Do you like trying new things, developing hobbies, and expanding skills?
Results: If you answered “yes” to the above three questions, you may be a great candidate to hold multiple positions.
I picked up my second job towards the end of last year. I was really nervous about keeping the balance and giving both positions 100% of my best work. When considering if this is a good fit for you, here are some of the pros and cons to consider:
Pros:
- Increased income – Extra money is one of the most common reasons people get a second job. Even if you’re just earning a little extra, it’s a nice boost.
- Security – the economy is always changing and work life is never something you should just assume would remain unchanged. Having a second job allows you a fallback should something happen with your first job. Don’t put all of your eggs in one basket!
- New skills – You get the opportunity to learn new skills, or develop skills you may already have but don’t get to develop in your first job.
- Branch out – It’s refreshing meeting and working with different groups of people in different settings.
Cons:
- If you don’t have great time management skills, you may end up stressed and even start to underperform in one or both positions.
- Less free time for your work/life balance. Depending on your family life, responsibilities, etc. a second job may not be the right fit.
I work full time in a corporate setting, so when I was considering picking up my other job I needed to think through what would be a good fit for me. I became a fitness instructor at a studio. This job allows me to teach classes some nights and weekends and it’s a hobby I love and believe in.
The first thing you need to do is make sure that your contract with your first employer doesn’t limit or prohibit other jobs. Also, think of your availability time-wise and have a good plan in place. But most importantly think of what you’re passionate about! Maybe you’ve always wanted to do carpentry work or design work but don’t want to change your first job; these would be great part-time, free-lance, or temp jobs to pick up. Most of the time people do want to pick up jobs in unrelated field to try new things and reduce burnout. Keep your eyes open! There’s lots of opportunities for flexible positions, Adecco itself offers positions like this to all, and a great example of employees that take advantage of this is our Olympic Athletes!
Holding two jobs can definitely be challenging, but it can also be rewarding. Even if it was unpaid, I always worked a second job – previously this meant volunteering much of my time at the local animal shelter helping with adoptions. I’m very organized and a good fit for two jobs. Some days I do feel like I just need to catch up on sleep and get some good ol’ relaxation time. However, for the most part the pros have always outweighed the cons. I love the fact that I’m invested in multiple places with different people. On tough weeks it brings me great peace to be able to leave the office environment and teach in my other job. And I do always make sure to schedule time for me and family and friends – it’s very important!
Lastly, keep in mind that change isn’t always a bad thing. Continue to evaluate your performance in both roles – how’s it going? Are you still enjoying holding multiple positions? Are you exceling in each? What has been the response of your main employer? Although sometimes they may frown upon the idea, typically a great employer and manager will love the idea that you are well-rounded, spending your time in valuable ways, and picking up skills. I hope you find your path and passion and maybe we can help. As one of my favorite people said, “We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we’re curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.” – Walt Disney.