There’s no doubt that companies invest a lot in their employees. From providing training and development opportunities to offering competitive salaries and benefits, businesses want their workers to be happy and engaged in their work. But what happens when an employee wants to moonlight? Should companies allow it?

Moonlighting is a popular term for working a second job, usually in the evening or overnight hours. It’s often used to refer to people who work in addition to their regular daytime job.

Moonlighting isn’t new, rather it’s been around for decades. Successful companies like Nike, Spanx, and FUBU were formed while the founders were moonlighting. Indian food ordering and delivery platform Swiggy has implemented policies allowing its employees to take on side projects. Infosys – a multinational IT giant, will allow employees to take on new projects after an internal approval process. Both companies have mentioned in their guidelines that their employees can take up additional projects if it doesn’t hamper their work.

However, moonlighting can lead to employee burnout, and not all companies support moonlighting. Read on to find out how companies can set clear guidelines about moonlighting and manage their employees efficiently.

How to Efficiently Manage Employee Moonlighting?

Employees’ moonlighting can present a challenge for employers. Fortunately, there are a few ways that allow employers to manage this. Here are five efficient ways to manage employee moonlighting:

Define Moonlighting

Moonlighting is the practice of working a second job in addition to one’s main job. It can be done out of necessity, to make extra money, or to pursue a hobby or interest. The term is often used to describe people who work more than one job, but it can also refer to those who work part-time in addition to their primary job. Start by defining Moonlighting for your employees and ensure everyone understands what’s allowed and what isn’t. 

Communicate Expectations

The best way to avoid misunderstandings and conflict at work is to communicate your expectations clearly from the start. Let your employees know what you expect from them regarding job performance, attitude, and conduct. If you have specific goals or deadlines, share those as well. Be sure to listen to your employees’ concerns and feedback as well. You can create a positive and productive work environment for all by having an open, two-way dialogue. Strive to create and maintain an environment where an employee is able to openly speak about moonlighting a project and take necessary approvals for the same. 

Encourage Monitoring The Moonlighting

While this can be a good way to earn extra income, it can also be risky if not done correctly. It is essential for your employees to monitor and track their moonlighting. This kind of responsibility ensures that they are neither putting their health nor their employment with your company at risk.

When and if employees reach out to you, it’s always good to advise them not to overwork themselves. Working two jobs can be taxing, both mentally and physically. Your employees should be able to create time for themselves and get an adequate amount of sleep. If not, there’s a good chance that it will eventually lead to employee burnout. They must keep track of their work hours at each job, and ensure it is within the legal limits. Working too many hours can lead to fatigue and increase the risk of injury. 

Working a second job can be a great way to make extra money for your employees, but it is critical for them to do so with safety. By following these tips, you can be confident in avoiding any adversities.

Set Rules for How Employees Can Moonlight

Set boundary conditions within your organization about moonlighting. You may forbid employees from moonlighting in the same industry as their regular job. You may also need to be flexible depending on individual circumstances. For example, you may allow employees to moonlight if they work on a beneficial project.

Let Your Employees Moonlight in Your Organization

One of the most effective ways to handle moonlighting is to allow your employees to volunteer and work for small ad hoc projects within other departments of the organization. A company needs to understand that an employee moonlights either to earn more money, gain more exposure in a different domain, or enhance his or her skill set. Opening up paid opportunities within the organization will enhance the retention of employees as well as keep them engaged.

Conclusion

Managing employee moonlighting can be a challenge, but by using these tips, employers can effectively handle the situation. Moonlighting could benefit employees and employers, but it is essential to ensure that both parties are on the same page.