As part of USA TODAY’s series, Johnny C. Taylor Jr. tackles human resources questions. Taylor is president and CEO of the Society for Human Resource Management, the world’s largest association of HR professionals, and author of Reset: A Leader’s Guide to Work in an Age of Upheaval.
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question: I recently worked at a catering event to help a friend and I really enjoyed the experience. There are opportunities to do these types of gigs more often. If I start a side hustle, do I need to disclose it to my employer? – Dale
Answer: The side hustle economy is booming. Nearly four in 10 workers now hold more than one job, including many full-time salaried workers. Therefore, if you organize a side hustle, you are not alone. But that doesn’t mean your employer is ready to post congratulations on your LinkedIn wall just yet.
First, things can quickly go sideways. I once had an employee who was an assistant to an executive at our company. It turned out that while she was working for us, she was taking calls for a side job. It turns out that when her manager asked her to set up a meeting, she said, “Hold on, I’m on the phone with a client at another job.” Yes, I’m serious. You can’t make something like this up!
Although this is an extreme example, it proves an important point. While a side hustle may make perfect sense to you, your employer may view it in a completely different light. What feels harmless on your part may seem like a conflict of interest to them. Even innocent duplication can be frowned upon, and once trust is damaged, it’s difficult to regain.
The reality is: Not all side gigs are created equal. When deciding whether to tell your employer about your side hustle, be sure to check your company’s policies. Many organizations have “moonlight” rules that fall into one of several buckets:
1. “Absolutely no” zone. If your side hustle competes with your employer’s work, overlaps with your company’s work hours, uses company resources, or takes focus away from your main job, it’s clearly a conflict. Disclosure is likely to be required and approval may not be obtained.
2. “Keep me updated” category. Many employers do not prohibit second jobs. They just want visibility. Disclosure does not necessarily mean denial, but accountability.
3. “I don’t have a policy, is that okay?” trap. Without rules, you can technically keep your side hustle to yourself. But that’s like leaving the house without an umbrella just because the forecast says it’s sunny. You can do that, but you may regret it later.
Awareness travels faster than policy. Even if you’re tired, distracted, or seem a little off your game, others will be there to fill in the gaps. And your side hustle may be responsible for that. Once that happens, it’s all uphill.
A quick and proactive conversation with your boss can actually protect you. It shows integrity, clears the air, and emphasizes that your core business comes first.
Side hustles are great for extra income, new skills, and a change of pace. Please be sure to check extra never interfere essential. If you handle the transparency part well, you can reap the benefits of a side gig without compromising your long-term career growth.
The views and opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY.
