Should I Get A Second Job, And What Are The Consequences If I Do?

With the rise of the remote workforce, it is easier than ever to hold down a second job as a means of financial security, career diversification, or both.

Having a second job, often known as moonlighting, is working outside your typical 9-to-5 hours at your primary employment, such as on the weekends and at night.

Since we are no longer confined to a single workplace, many see it as the next logical step to have contractual arrangements with multiple businesses. Working remotely simplifies scheduling and management, mainly if your primary job relies on asynchronous communication.

You may consider starting your own business or responding to an ideal job offer. However, you may stop as doubts grounded in reality cross your mind. How would it look to your coworkers and superiors if this were to be revealed? Can one go into legal trouble for working a second job?

If you’re worried about being caught and sued by your employer, this blog will provide you with some solutions to assist put your mind at ease as you begin your second job.

Should I Be Honest With My Current Employer About My Part-Time Work?

The answer to this question depends on the company’s policy and the terms of your employment contract. Even if you decide not to inform your existing employer that you have accepted a second employment offer. However, we recommend that you be as sincere as possible with the company in the future to avoid any confusion.

Moreover, your employers will undoubtedly learn about it thanks to the internet and social media. Both of your potential employers would benefit more from hearing about your side gig from you personally than from a LinkedIn profile.

As long as it doesn’t create a conflict of interest or negatively impact your performance at your primary position, many employers don’t object if their employees work for someone else. If you consult both your current and potential future employers, you may be able to work out a timetable that permits you to do well in both positions.

Can You Get in Trouble for Having Two Full-Time Jobs?

Although working two jobs is not against the law, it may violate your employment contract with your current company. Check the company’s policy and your employment contract for clarification on whether or not moonlighting is permitted at your current employer. If you haven’t been able to locate anything, the Human Resources (HR) office is a good resource for ensuring you aren’t breaking any terms of your job.

Furthermore, if there are conflicts of interest, you may be accused of disclosing confidential material in violation of privacy regulations, such as trade secrets or customer data. Working for a competitor in the same industry as your employer is bound to create conflicts of interest.

Conclusion

However, regulations governing workplaces vary from one state to the next. To be safe, you might want to check with a law firm to ensure that you are within your rights to seek various opportunities in light of applicable laws and your employer’s guidelines.