Whether you are an employer or a staff member, being aware of the benefits and downsides of Moonlighting or Side Hustles or Plan B's is vital. Motivators may include-
Redundancy.
Keeping skills current during career breaks.
Keeping partners skills current during their career breaks.
Giving the kids life & work skills.
Cash flow through what can be inevitable income hiccups.
As a recruiter I often hear the comment 'I've been made redundant again'. Many people we've spoken to have been made redundant more than once in the last 5 years. Having a side hustle or moonlighting gig is a great idea in the rough and tumble of the Western Australian economy.
As an employer do you have a policy to cover the probability of an employee engaging in a 'bit on the side'?
Clarity in the contract is essential if a dismissal is required.
Airtasker, Sidekicker, Uber, Olga, Gumtree are a few of the market places to showcase your skills. Plus there are websites by organisations such as Click Start Digital that are 'ready set go' businesses. They have online stores with supplier agreements and payment portals already in place.
There is an Australian website [with a facebook page] dedicated to helping you manage two jobs 'Licence to Hustle'.
When the topic of a Plan B arises, open conversations with those around you are imperative.
Issues to consider are:-
Competitive conflict.
Checking contract – Any form of moonlighting may not be approved for many reasons, including wanting staff fresh and enthused for the main job.
As an employee avoid the temptation to utilise current employers resources or contacts for the Side Hustle.
Keep time available for those important family interactions and 'work life' balance.