In today’s economy, side hustles have become more than just a trend—they’re a necessity for many. With rising living costs and a desire for personal fulfillment, people are seeking opportunities beyond their 9-to-5 jobs. But this surge in entrepreneurial spirit brings up a pressing question: Should you keep your side hustle a secret from your employer?
The Rise of the Side Hustle
A 2022 Harris Poll survey revealed that 40% of workers have a side hustle, with millennials and Gen Z leading the charge. For some, it’s about pursuing a passion or testing a business idea. For others, it’s a financial imperative to offset economic challenges like inflation and student debt. Popular side gigs range from freelancing and selling handmade goods to ride-sharing and online tutoring.
The Case for Keeping It Confidential
Many employees grapple with whether to disclose their side business to their employer. Workplace culture plays a significant role in this decision. In some environments, transparency is valued and even encouraged. In others, revealing a side hustle could lead to undue scrutiny or even job insecurity.
Lucy Jeffrey, founder of Bare Kind, suggests that initially keeping the side hustle a secret can protect it from external negative influences. She advises building a solid foundation before sharing it with others, especially in professional settings. This approach allows individuals to avoid potential conflicts and focus on growing their venture without added pressure.
Know Your Company’s Policies
Before making any decisions, it’s crucial to review your employment contract for any clauses about outside work. Some companies have strict policies or non-compete agreements that could impact your ability to run a side business. Lyle Solomon of Oak View Law Group emphasizes the importance of ensuring your side gig doesn’t conflict with your primary job and that you’re not using company resources for personal gain.
The Benefits of Being Open
On the flip side, some experts advocate for transparency. David Ciccarelli, CEO of Voices.com, believes that building a support network can be beneficial. By informing your employer, you may gain access to resources, advice, or even collaborative opportunities that could enhance both your side hustle and your primary role.
Angelique Rewers, founder of BoldHaus, notes that employers often want their employees to feel fulfilled and happy, which can lead to greater productivity and loyalty. Open communication about side gigs might strengthen the employer-employee relationship and foster a more supportive work environment.
Navigating Potential Conflicts
If you choose to keep your side hustle private, it’s essential to maintain clear boundaries. This means:
- Working on your side gig outside of company hours.
- Using your own equipment and resources.
- Avoiding any conflicts of interest with your employer’s business.
Daniella Flores, a side hustle expert, stresses the importance of not using company time or equipment for personal ventures. She shares from experience that employers can claim ownership over anything created using their resources, which could jeopardize your side hustle.
Finding the Balance
Whether you decide to share your side hustle with your employer or keep it under wraps, the key is to ensure it doesn’t interfere with your job performance. Vivienne Neale from Cornwall Business School points out that side gigs can actually enhance job engagement by allowing employees to develop new skills and bring fresh perspectives to their primary roles.
However, it’s vital to avoid burnout. Juggling multiple responsibilities can be taxing, so effective time management and self-care are paramount.
Making the Decision
Ultimately, the choice to disclose your side hustle hinges on multiple factors:
- Company Policy: Does your employer have rules about outside work?
- Workplace Culture: Is entrepreneurship encouraged or frowned upon?
- Nature of the Side Hustle: Could it be seen as a conflict of interest?
- Your Relationship with Your Employer: Do you anticipate support or resistance?
As Meera Watts of Siddhi Yoga advises, sometimes it’s best to keep professional and personal endeavors separate, especially if you’re unsure how they’ll be received.
Conclusion
Side hustles offer a path to financial stability, personal growth, and fulfillment. Deciding whether to keep yours a secret is a personal choice that requires careful consideration of your unique circumstances. By understanding your company’s policies, assessing your work environment, and setting clear boundaries, you can make an informed decision that’s right for you.
In a world where the gig economy is booming, and traditional employment models are evolving, navigating the intricacies of side hustles and full-time jobs is more relevant than ever. Remember, the goal is to enhance your life and career—not to create unnecessary friction. You can get legal or professional advice specific to your situation when making decisions about employment and side ventures.
