Leadership

What to do when you find an employee working on their side hustle

- December 26, 2023 3 MIN READ
Walter White in Breaking Bad
Walter White in Breaking Bad. Image: AMC.
As remote and flexible work increases, so does a rising trend of employees juggling multiple jobs. As an HR professional, I find this trend both intriguing and challenging.

The motivation seems to be primarily driven by the relentless increases in the cost of living.

With traditional avenues such as overtime and extended working hours often restricted, many people are seeking alternative means to supplement their income. This isn’t just limited to a specific region; countries like India have long embraced this practice, and now Australia is experiencing a surge in the prevalence of side gigs too.

A common question arising in response to the trend is whether managers should closely monitor the activities of their remote staff.

Opt for accountability rather than snooping

From an HR standpoint, the focus should be on outcomes rather than intrusive oversight. Clearly defined objectives and deadlines foster accountability and enable employees to manage their time efficiently. Trust, a cornerstone of successful remote work, is built through transparent communication and clear expectations.

As long as there are no conflicts of interest and employees are forthcoming about their additional commitments, granting them autonomy can be valuable.

When it comes to discovering employees engaged in secondary employment during their primary work hours, I’d advocate that a delicate approach is crucial. Instead of jumping to conclusions, initiating a conversation rooted in understanding is key. Allowing employees to explain their actions fosters an environment of trust and respect, encouraging open dialogue and potential solutions.

It also needs to be considered that the confidence employees gain when they have control over their lives and work can significantly impact their overall performance and wellbeing. This sense of empowerment often extends beyond their side hustle and can spill over into their primary role.

Employee side hustles can benefit your business too

Having a side hustle or a second job doesn’t just provide financial benefits; it can also offer a renewed sense of motivation to perform better in both roles. The diversity of tasks and skills required in different jobs can lead to a broader skill set and increased adaptability.

This can translate into improved self-assurance and a willingness to tackle challenges creatively, ultimately benefiting their primary employment as well.

Despite the possibility that we are somewhat accepting of increased surveillance and the company of cameras on our laptops and phones, which may mitigate some of the monitoring’s negative effects, there’s still the omnipresent ghoul of being watched. Nobody likes to know they’re under surveillance, right?

A psychological study published this year highlighted how employees who sensed an environment where their supervisors were constantly observing their work – suggesting increased monitoring – saw their trust in their superiors dwindle.

Understandably, this erosion of trust led to a reduction in their overall energy and an increase in emotional fatigue. Employee wellbeing is significantly impacted by the employers’ trust in them.

Surveillance and privacy concerns

In the context of Australian workplaces, it’s imperative for employers to establish meticulous policies pertaining to monitoring software in accordance with legal requisites.

These policies should be developed collaboratively, engaging employees in their creation, and subject to periodic evaluations to ensure a sustained understanding, particularly in a landscape of increased side-hustles and second jobs.

While businesses often value employees who go the extra mile, especially in times of economic uncertainty, it’s worth considering the risk that wearing multiple hats can potentially dilute an employee’s ability to excel in a singular role.

Recent cases involving the dismissal of employees following invasive monitoring, such as keystroke tracking technology, have sparked conversations about the boundary between oversight and privacy.

In my experience, focusing on performance outcomes holds more weight than implementing intrusive surveillance measures. Building a culture of mutual respect and accountability, regardless of the work setting, ultimately yields more favourable results.

Creating an environment where employees feel valued and responsible for their deliverables contributes to a healthier work atmosphere.

The trend will persist as a direct response to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, so breaching the secrecy and bringing it forward for constructive debate and conversation is the only way forward. Communication is the cornerstone for successful remote work.

By striking a balance between autonomy and accountability, businesses will adapt to this changing landscape. By prioritising results over intrusive monitoring and empowering employees through open communication, businesses can foster an environment of trust, engagement, and continuous growth.

As we navigate this dynamic terrain, it’s evident that understanding and empathy will continue to guide businesses and employees alike toward successful collaboration.