Lots of people have heard the term “Moonlighting,” but don’t know what it means. Moonlighting is a job you do on the side to make extra money. It can be something as simple as working a second job, or it could be something more involved, like starting your own business.
Moonlighting gives you a chance to make some extra cash and tap into new talents you may not use in your day-to-day job. It also can be a way to get out of the routine of your regular job and explore other opportunities.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of moonlighting, as well as the legal and ethical implications to consider before taking on a second job. So if you’re considering moonlighting or just curious about the topic, this blog has all the information you need to make an informed decision.
What is Moonlighting?
Simply put, moonlighting is the act of working a second job in addition to your primary employment. This can be a great way to supplement your income or pursue a passion outside of your main career. However, there are some important things to consider before you start moonlighting, including potential conflicts of interest, tax implications, and the impact it could have on your primary job.
If you’re thinking of moonlighting, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure you aren’t moonlighting too much – if you’re doing two jobs instead of one, that’s probably too many hours. Second, try to find a job that you enjoy. If you find yourself dreading each day at your main job, it’s unlikely you’ll enjoy moonlighting as well. And finally, always be safe when engaging in any freelancing or side hustling – err on the side of caution and take proper precautions to protect yourself and your assets.
Why Moonlighting?
India is among the fastest growing economies which employs a population that comes from different financial backgrounds and mindsets. Among these, there could be people who want to multiply sources of income, become financially stronger, gain more expertise in the field of their choice perform moonlighting. However, this led to controversy among various renowned Firms.
How to Determine Whether an Employee Is Moonlighting?
Employers can use an employee’s Universal Account Number (UAN) from the Workers’ Provident Fund to determine whether they are working for their rivals on the side (EPF). In order to determine whether two PF payments are being made by distinct employers, companies can access an employee’s UAN number. When two PF contributions are made simultaneously to a UAN, it is obvious that the employees are working second jobs.
Yet, businesses may begin implementing cutting-edge technology to monitor gadgets provided to employees strictly for office work and learn when a person uses it to complete work for another company. In order to find out whether an employee is doing a second job, they may also use a third-party agency for background checks.
Policy for Employees in Moonlighting
Employee moonlighting has drawn attention in India, and the leading businesses have opinions on it. The question of whether moonlighting is morally or legally acceptable is still up for debate.
A company’s policy on moonlighting must be created in collaboration with its HR department. Because of this, each company may have a different policy about moonlighting. Several businesses have already established policies on moonlighting, while a few others have not yet done so. However, because it creates a conflict of interest, the majority of businesses forbid their employees from working for firms that are in the same industry. Even when they don’t have a specific moonlighting policy, some businesses nonetheless forbid employees from working two jobs by including a language in their employment contracts.
Is Moonlighting Unethical?
In Western countries, dual employment or moonlighting is permissible by most organizations if the 2nd job is not affecting the regular one. That means, if you are done with the 9 to 5 shift in your regular job, you can pull up your sleeves and report to your second job without any apprehension. This means it is not unethical.
Is Moonlighting Restricted in India?
In India, yes, it is restricted!
Most organizations in India have policies that restrict an employed individual to work or engage with any other institution, business, or entity that pays him.
If you get selected and receive an offer from such an organization that restricts dual employment, it will be unethical to work or engage in any other business or job. If engaged, this may have unfavorable consequences and may lead to termination of employment.
Moonlighting: Pros and Cons
There are several pros and cons of moonlighting just like a coin has two sides. Check out the pros and cons mentioned below.
 |
 |
| Source of additional income | Balancing two work schedules is difficult |
| Wide exposure and the chance to collaborate on various projects and jobs | Reduced productivity and burnout |
| the chance to expand one’s skill set | Lack of a work-life balance |
| Increased professional network | Less time and focus on keeping up one’s physical health |
| Having enough money to weather financial turbulence like layoffs | Security issues for both businesses |
Conclusion
If an employee intends to work a second job or moonlight, they should review the terms of their employment contracts and the company’s regulations. Contractual and secret restrictions prohibiting multiple employment are common in the IT industry. Even if there are no such provisions, it is nevertheless advisable to first consult with human resources to learn about the company’s rules regarding side jobs.
Now, that you know what is moonlighting, follow The Corporate Demands for more such interesting articles and new updates about the corporate world.
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