For many in Western New York, the high inflation we have faced in 2022 has significantly impacted us. For some people, it has meant changing spending habits, dipping into savings, or simply doing without, as they focus on expenses. With the long-term forecast not indicating that inflation will go down to the previous low levels enjoyed over the previous decade or more, many people have now begun to think about the revenue side of the equation. This is especially true as workers have become more nervous regarding their own status and that of their company during this current economy.
The American Staffing Association recently unveiled a timely report that had interesting data regarding workers and second jobs. Their research indicated that a majority (58%) will be seeking a supplementary job in 2023. The thought that potentially over half of the working population will work multiple jobs next year is pretty amazing. When you dive further into this research, it is not surprising that there is a generational difference impacting this topic. Baby Boomers are less likely to be looking for a side hustle than younger generations, where the numbers can go up to over 70% of this working population.
If you are thinking about working a side hustle in 2023, here are some things to consider:
- Could You Accomplish Your Goals With a Better Job: If you desire for a side hustle is purely to add to your income, then could this increase be accomplished by leaving your current position? Do some research and determine where your current compensation has you situated in the marketplace. You may find that your primary skills are in demand, and that you can find a new position with a higher income, which will negate your need for an additional job. Or you could take this market data information into your current employer and seek an acceptable pay increase from them. Either way, the additional compensation allows you to only work one position.
- How Much Flexibility Do You Have: The determination of your flexibility needs to take into account not only your primary job, but also the demands of your personal life. Will you be able to take on a second job with a set schedule, or do you need something more flexible than a more traditional part-time job? This flexibility requirement may determine whether you deliver food, work in a retail store, or drive a snow-plow truck. It may also be important to find out whether you have the flexibility to work more or less, depending on how busy your primary position is.
- What Do You Want to Do: This may be determined by the rigors of your primary job more than anything. For someone working in front of a computer in a mentally stressful job, the opportunity to do some physical work may seem to be a relief. On the opposite side, a person who works in a physically demanding role may need the relief of a more sedentary gig, like working as a driver.
- Primary Job Is Priority: This is one area that I see a person with a side hustle struggle the most, in concept. You can’t expect your primary employer (the one providing you the majority of your income and benefits) to conform to the needs of your side hustle. In a perfect world, your Manager will never know that you have another position, unless this is something that company policy requires you to disclose. So, don’t ask your Manager for time off or a schedule change in order to work your other position. Likewise, if you know that you are going into a busy period at work, then adjust your secondary position accordingly, so you are available for overtime.
- Don’t Overdo It: We all have our capacities, both in time and the mental and physical rigors we can absorb. It is important that your side hustle still allows you the time needed to refresh your mind and body. Furthermore, don’t forget your family and friends during this time.
The good news is that many employers are still very actively recruiting people for part-time and gig roles. You can traditionally go online to a job posting website such as https://sm.wnyjobs.com and review numerous part-time roles. You can also apply directly to the company if you wish to do more of a gig role, such as a delivery person or a passenger driver. Either way, a position that meets your needs should be available.
Working a second position can be a great way to earn some extra income to either help you offset inflation, save for something you want, or provide a cushion fund in case something happens to your primary job. The key for you is to know what you want to do and how much time you have to devote to this side hustle. Remember – it is imperative that you properly balance the needs of your primary position with anything your side hustle requires.
As always, the best of luck in your job search.
The following has been prepared for the general information of WNYJobs readers. It is not meant to provide advice with respect to any specific legal or policy matter and should not be acted upon without verification by the reader.
Joe Stein WNY Human Resources Professional
Feel free to contact Joe Stein regarding questions or comments at: Joe Stein
