1. Make Sure Your Employer Won’t Object
Before you start looking for a part-time job, check your employee handbook or contract. Some businesses stipulate that you can't work for competitors or any other clients or organizations in the same industry while employed there. Other organizations prohibit employees from having any second job. Make sure you know the rules where you work by reading your contract or your employee handbook for any information about second jobs, conflicts of interest, and competitors.
2. Keep Them Separated
If second jobs aren’t prohibited, you still want to keep your current job and potential second job separate. This means that you shouldn't use resources from your first job, like a laptop, copier, or office supplies, for your second job. If you need to take a call for one job during the hours allotted to the other, use your lunch hour or afternoon coffee break to do it. It could also be considered bad form to search for and apply to a second job while you're on the clock at your first job. Keep calls and interviews limited to times when you aren't working, including personal days and other ρáíd time off.
3. Consider Freelancing
Looking for second job ideas for full-time workers? Look at what you already do for a living and try to leverage those skills. Try freelancing as your entry point to a more long-term side hustle or even a new full-time job. One way to build your freelance clientele is to look at the demands in your local community and see how you can use your skills to bridge that gap. Or, you can browse freelance job postings to find openings that pique your interest.
4. Watch Your Time
Working more than one job can be a drag on your time. Be sure to consider travel time and your at-home schedule when looking to add on another job. If you're going to juggle two jobs, you'll need to be a pro at time management, prioritization, and organization. Create and stick to a strictly defined schedule so that your side hustle doesn't interfere with your 9-to-5.
5. Be Flexible
Picking up a second job will likely mean that you may have to work nights, weekends, and other odd hours. Timing is everything. Consider looking for a second job in the service industry, where restaurants and bars open after you've left your day job. Or find a job you can do over the weekend, like real estate, freelancing, or tutoring.
6. Have a Goal
Knowing why you’re taking another job will help put you on the path to get the right one. If you're taking on a side gig because you need extra cash, set a clear plan for your second job and possibly a budget. Are you looking to make a certain amount of money to meet a financial target? Or maybe you're hoping to transition to another industry or role full time. Whatever your reasons are, working towards a clear goal is helpful.
