Start A Side Gig By Appealing To Your Employer’s Interests

Start A Side Gig By Appealing To Your Employer’s Interests

Moonlighting is a great way to earn extra income when you already have a full-time job. But it’s not always easy, especially if it gets in the way of your time at work. The Wall Street Journal offers an interesting solution: align your side gig with your employer’s interests.

Picture: Chris Martin/Flickr

Dennis Nishi of the WSJ writes:

If you believe your sideline can benefit your employer, experts say, a good pitch to your boss can net some official support in the form of flexible scheduling, telecommuting and even financial assistance…Assure the boss that your full-time job has priority and that you do your side work only after hours. Be upfront about your ability to handle both jobs without one adversely affecting the other…

Nishi uses an example of a guy who launched a nonprofit on the side, and brought his marketing skills and experience to a full-time job. His side gig actually benefited his employer, so his employer was flexible with his schedule:

He has since launched several successful marketing initiatives first tried on his nonprofit, including a video promotion with a rock band that got a million views. He was recently promoted to director of marketing.

Of course, that might be a best-case scenario example. And, obviously, this isn’t a solution for everyone. But if you’re trying to launch your own side project, this is a good angle to start with.

How to Moonlight Without the Worry [Wall Street Journal]


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