Working more than one job is more common than it may seem. According to data, 8.8 million workers in the U.S. and more than 1 million in Canada work multiple jobs. Whether you call it a second job or side hustle, the goal is to earn income beyond your main job.
Second jobs are a realistic option to supplement finances or save for large expenses or emergencies. Working multiple jobs can be challenging and carries a level of risk, but there are ways to make it happen. Choosing a temporary job is a good option to meet your goals within a set time.
Temporary Jobs as Second Jobs
Temporary jobs, sometimes called contract or seasonal, last a specific length of time, such as a few days to weeks or months. This type of job can be helpful for:
- Making ends meet financially
- Saving for major expenses
- Building an emergency fund
- Practicing or learning new skills to land a higher-paying job in the future
Why People Need Second Jobs
There are many reasons to take on a second job. Inflation and cost of living, increased costs, and new phases of life bring new and higher expenses. Second jobs can help meet these needs because:
- They’re an option to increase income quickly.
- Inflation and cost of living make it more difficult to afford normal purchases.
- A car repair, home improvement, or another unexpected expense can quickly drain savings.
- Stretching the budget to provide for others or support a teenager preparing for college makes it even more difficult to save while still making ends meet.
Risks of Working a Second Job
Taking a second job isn’t a magic fix to financial worries. It can help, but it also requires sacrifice. There are risks to watch out for, including:
- Company policies may prevent employees from working multiple jobs or working in certain industries.
- Stealing time—overemployment may be tempting, but there are serious consequences to stealing time or violating a contract prohibiting working multiple jobs at the same time.
- Eroding work-life balance—taking a second job can quickly eat up your free time, intrude on personal time, and reduce time for errands and hobbies.
- Negative impact on mental health—work is often essential to maintaining a lifestyle, but overworking can be detrimental. It can increase stress, anxiety, exhaustion, and accelerate burnout.
- Being too tired to do both jobs well. Second jobs can be short-term, so having a clear goal and knowing there’s an end in sight can provide enough motivation to push through.
- Additional expenses incurred from childcare, transportation, or landing in a new tax bracket.
Next Steps to a Second Job
Temporary jobs can make a second income more manageable by offering flexibility and a clear end date. Before accepting one, review your employer’s policies, set a specific financial goal, and plan time for rest. With a realistic plan, a temporary second job can help you move toward your goals without becoming a long-term strain.
About Express Employment Professionals
At Express Employment Professionals, we’re in the business of people. From job seekers to client companies, Express helps people thrive and businesses grow. Our international network of franchises offers localized staffing solutions to the communities they serve across the U.S., Canada, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand, employing more than 11 million since its inception. For assistance with your job search, visit ExpressPros.com/Job-Seekers or ExpressPros.ca/Job-Seekers.
