Working two jobs

Working two jobs Working two jobsPosted October 13, 2011, by Helen Isbister For the majority of people, a typical nine-to-five work day is more than enough before hitting the couch and retiring in front of the television for the night. However, mortgage stress, rent increases, fuel costs and rising food prices mean Australia is experiencing a moonlighting boom as we sign on to more than one gig to supplement our income. Nearly a quarter of Australians say they hold down two jobs, and some of us are even taking part in the new phenomenon of daylighting fitting two jobs into one shift in order to outsmart the global financial crisis. If you are considering becoming one of the growing number of moonlighters, just make sure you think carefully about your motivations and the pros and cons associated with a double life. Making ends meet More work equals more money its a simple equation and the most common reason to take up another job. The dicey economic situation means we are more focu sed on ensuring our security and the best way to do that (apart from hunting down a ridiculously wealthy spouse) is by boosting our salary and diversifying our income streams. A second career could also prove a very useful safety net in this time of redundancies. But dont fall into the trap of diverting all your energy into your second job and jeopardising your main career in the process that in itself could land you on the top of the redundancy pile. Apart from the extra cash going into the bank account, more time slaving away means less time to empty the bank account. However, theres no point burning the midnight oil for some extra cash if youll never have time to enjoy it plus youll be paying more tax on your secondary income. Also dont forget that some things are invaluable (such as health and family time), so dont be so busy counting your coins that you forget about whats really important. Keeping things interesting Working different jobs can create room for your real passion s, meaning you can pursue what actually interests you in one gig while also keeping a job that brings home the bacon. You may work as an accountant during the day to pay the bills, while you sing at night to satisfy your creative urges. A career in office administration can keep you afloat while you wait for your painting career to take off, or teaching scuba diving on the weekend can be supported by a job in IT. If you are starting up your own business it may be a good idea to keep a day job while things get started, just in case things dont work out quite as you envisage. Boosting your employability Working two jobs can not only boost your bank balance, but also keep your resume in peak condition. A second job can fast-track your career by broadening your skills and networks. You will have twice as much experience up your sleeve next time you are looking around for a new job increasing your aussicht of getting the job and raising your salary potential. Some employers will also be impressed by your ability to hold down two jobs. Better to have someone with energy and initiative than a work drone who does as theyre told and nothing more. Playing it safe There are no rules when hunting for a secondary career the world is your oyster. You might like to keep your second job in the same industry you already work in, or go down a completely different path. There are some things to look out for if you want to take up extra employment. Firstly, many primary places of employment require permission for you to hold down a second job. There may be some ethical issues which come up, like confidentiality or competition, especially if your second job is in the same industry. Working for two different employers also means you risk losing your energy and focus, so be careful not to let your performance slip. Its not only your primary job you need to keep in peak condition you also need to make sure a second career isnt going to affect your worklife balance too much. Howeve r, if you can avoid biting off more than you can chew, you will end up wealthier and possibly wiser. 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