Managing a second job while holding down a full-time position can be hard but rewarding. With the right way, it’s possible to handle both successfully. Here are a few tips on how to do it.
How to Work a Second Job While Working Full-Time?
- Pick something you really like or find easy: Your second job should either be something you’re really like about or something so simple you don’t mind doing it after hours.
- Be smart about scheduling: Work weekends or after your day job for just a few hours at a time to avoid getting too tired. Many have found this manageable and not as tiring as one might expect.
- Consider remote opportunities: Look for jobs that offer the flexibility to work from home, especially if you can find tasks that can be done simultaneously with your current job or during your downtime.
Are You Obligated to Tell the Employer That You Have Another Job?
While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, be aware of the legal aspects regarding working hours. Many full-time employment contracts include clauses against holding a second job, particularly if it means working more than 48 hours per week across both roles. That being said, for independent contractors, this rule may not apply.
Is Working Two Jobs Worth It?
Yes, for some people, it is. The extra income can help a lot with money goals such as saving for a vacation, covering regular expenses, or building a resume for future career moves. However, it’s important to be prepared for the additional worry and reduced free time. Adjusting schedules to avoid getting too tired is key; it’s more possible if the additional work hours don’t severely cut into your remaining free time or rest periods.
Employment Trends with Multiple Jobs
The practice of holding multiple jobs has evolved over time, reflecting changes in the job market. Understanding these trends helps to identify challenges faced by those juggling more than one job. Below, we examine these trends using the “Multiple Jobholders as a Percent of Employed” chart sourced from Federal Reserve Economic Data:
- Stable Pattern: Historically, around 5% of the employed workforce holds multiple jobs, indicating a consistent segment of workers who manage additional employment successfully.
- Year 2000 Jump: The data shows a notable increase to slightly over 6%, possibly reflecting economic conditions that led workers to seek additional sources of income.
- COVID-19 Impact: Early 2020 saw a significant drop, likely due to the contraction of the job market and pandemic-related lockdowns.
- Quick Recovery: Following the lifting of restrictions, the job market rapidly rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, underscoring the resilience of those holding multiple jobs.
Holding multiple jobs, as shown in the chart, appears to be a consistent necessity or strategy for about 5-6% of the population. This segment of the workforce has maintained multiple job holdings despite varying economic climates.
What Is the Best 2nd Job to Have?
When you’re considering a second job, it makes sense to pick something that either brings you joy or fits easily into your schedule without much stress. Here are a few ideas for second jobs based on the flexibility they offer and the potential to earn extra income:
- Weekend Soccer Referee: An enjoyable way for those who love sports to make extra income over the weekends.
- Retail Work During Holiday Seasons: Work from November to March for extra money and to get a generous employee discount, particularly useful for those who need business attire for their day jobs.
- Online Freelancing: Offers flexibility to work in your free time, potentially increasing your income from the comfort of your home.
- Making YouTube Videos: A creative outlet that can turn into a source of income by sharing videos on topics you are passionate about.
- Part-time IT Job: Offering a foot-in-the-door opportunity for those interested in IT, which can potentially lead to a full-time position.
- Working in Physical Security: An entry-level security position that doesn’t require specialized skills and can offer the experience needed for future careers.
- Waitressing: Provides immediate income through wages and tips.
- Hairdressing: A skilled job that can make decent money over the weekends without overly compromising personal time.
- Graveyard Shifts in Film Creation: For those with career aspirations in the film industry, working extra hours can offer both additional income and valuable experience.
Choosing a second job really depends on your personal interests, existing skills, and how much additional work you’re willing to take on. The key is to find something that brings you joy or adds value to your life without making you feel overburdened.
Additional Tips:
- Put first your feeling good and health: Handling two jobs can need a lot. Ensuring you have enough rest and downtime is crucial.
- Seek jobs that go well with your lifestyle: For instance, choosing a job in retail could save you money on clothes you need for your full-time job.
- Use the second job to gain new skills or experiences that could benefit your career in the long run.
In conclusion, working a second job while employed full-time is indeed possible, but it requires careful planning, thinking, and occasionally, some giving things up. The key is to find a balance that doesn’t harm your health or personal life. For many, the benefits—whether financial, professional, or personal—outweigh the challenges.