Needle, Meet Haystack

As I mentioned the other day, I recently acquired a second job.  And although this keeps me busier, it also allows me to devote more time to building my professional brand, not to mention that it increases my income significantly.  There are many advantages to spending more time working, but you must be careful that you don’t overstep your bounds.  Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Check with your boss first. Depending on your current employer, you may have some restrictions on where/how you can acquire a second job.  Also, you will have to negotiate a way to schedule your time at both jobs.  Explaining the situation to your boss early can help the process go more smoothly and can save a lot of headaches and trouble in the long run.
• Tell your interviewer. Similarly, your new employer must also be informed of your other job.  While this may work against you in the interview process, withholding this information can lead to a waste of everyone’s time and energy.
• Check with your accountant. Or, look into tax laws and regulations for filing – some things may change for you when you get a new job, money-wise.  Make sure you know what you’re in for when April 15 rolls around.
• Make sure you can handle it. Don’t take a second job just because you need the money.  If you are physically, mentally or emotionally unable to deal with a heavier workload, don’t do it – you’ll crash and burn early.
• Plan things out ahead of time. It might be to your benefit to set a schedule for your first month, so you can settle into a better routine or groove as you find the balance between your jobs.
• Be aware of the hours. A lot of people forget how time-intensive a new job can be; learning procedures, methods, rules, regulations, practices and so on takes a lot of time, so you may not have as much room for relaxation as you think.
• Make time for yourself. Don’t take on so much work that it consumes your life.  If there’s no time for family, friends, hobbies or sleep, you need to find a way to cut back.

It makes a lot of sense to get a second job if you can afford the time and need the money or experience.  But make sure that if you pursue this path, you’re aware of the risks, not just the rewards.