Exploring the Pros and Cons of Overemployment
Overemployment is a popular term that we can find in the corporate world. It is all about working on two different full-time jobs at the same time. Let's talk about what that additional paycheck can mean for you.
Benefits of Overemployment
Let’s now take a look at the benefits that tempt employees to accept a second full-time job.
1. The Money
Financial Necessity:
Money is the main reason to look for a second full-time job.
To stop living paycheck to paycheck. (78% of Americans according to 2023 study by payroll.org)
It’s difficult to save money after paying for housing, vehicle/transport, utilities, food, and various other living expenses.
Debts: That extra paycheck can be the difference between paying off debts and living in debt.
Savings: We can start putting money towards savings and enjoy that sense of security that comes with not having a backup plan.
Improved Lifestyle: We can finally afford those things we see other people enjoying.
Early Retirement: Securing an early retirement, especially given that in the US the retirement age is only increasing.
2. Building Your Network
Opportunity to Network: Working for a company provides you with the opportunity to network with people.
Long-Term Benefits: The network you build can benefit you in the long run.
Diverse Connections: You are introducing yourself to people who come from different backgrounds and industries.
Future Opportunities: Through your network, you can find new opportunities in the future.
Career Growth: Networking is considered one of the most powerful tools available for career growth.
3. More Experience and Skill Development
Skill Improvement: Working for a job allows you to improve your skills and gather new experiences.
Double the Experience: By working two different jobs at the same time, you can gain twice the amount of experience.
Cross-Benefits: The experience and skills from one job can benefit the other.
Example – Software Developers:
Some software developers accept a second job as a technical writer.
This helps them improve their documentation skills.
The skills learned from the second job can benefit their primary job as well.
Downsides of Overemployement
Now that we went through the main benefits of overemployment, let’s take a look at some drawbacks that come with it.
1. RIP Work-Life Balance
Loss of Work-Life Balance: Depending on the workload, overemployment can take away time that you would usually spend doing non work things, like living your life.
When I had two jobs this was a drawback that I hadn’t expected to hit so hard. As it turns out that free time was what made life worth living.
Long Hours: Sitting in front of your computer for more than 12 hours a day can be detrimental.
This can be mitigated with regular breaks to stand up and move. With a second paycheck you can even afford to invest in a more ergonomic setup like a standing desk.
Reduced Family Time: You will not be able to enjoy quality time with your loved family members.
This will depend on your personal situation. Do you have a partner? Is your partner on board? A few years of overemployement could mean a short term loss for a long net term gain in terms of freedom.
Health Issues: Overemployment can lead to numerous health issues.
Stress, anxiety, and sedentary habits all have detrimental affects on our bodies. However, settings aside some of your second paycheck towards mitigating known health issues that come with overemployement is a valid strategy.
2. Your Boss Won't Like It
General Prohibition: In most instances, you are not allowed to take two different full-time job offers at the same time.
This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do it, it means you need to weigh the risks of your first job finding out
- Employment Agreement:
When signing up for a full-time job, you have to sign an agreement which typically states that you are not allowed to accept another full-time job.
This means that your boss can justify firing you for breaking this agreement.
- Secrecy and Risks:
- You are not obligated to tell your first job about your second job.
You have to accept the anxiety that comes with working in a gray area.
Depending on the company, if you get caught you could face disciplinary action.
3. Decreased Productivity
Increased Distractions: Being on the clock for two different jobs will require your attention to be split. Learning to multitask is a must.
Reduced Focus: The focus you had with one job will most likely not be possible as you pick up another job.
Loss of Productivity: Studies show that overworked employees are often less productive, and depending on your jobs you can easily become overworked.
Career Advancement Issues: If you were looking to advance in your career, the additional experience/money might not make up for the lack of productivity in your main career. Coworkers who can afford to focus on their one job will have a higher chance of getting promoted.
Final Words
In this economy, it can be necessary to have two jobs. For many Americans having a second paycheck will provide a sense of security, relief, and freedom that far outweigh any negatives that come with over employment. It’s up to you to decide if you can make your second paycheck worth the drawbacks that come with a second job.