I Have Two Jobs: 4 Reasons Why One Job Didn’t Cover My Needs Financially

Working more than one job isn’t as unusual as it once was. Today, between one-third and half of Americans have a side hustle, and a significant percentage work multiple full-time jobs. 

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Many people’s reasoning isn’t surprising — they need to supplement their income. But that’s not the only reason people are taking on more work.

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Finding Variety

While 30 years ago, workers were satisfied going to work every day and coming home with a paycheck, society has changed over the decades. Today, workers aren’t as fulfilled as they once were. Instead, they’re looking for variety. Not only does this help keep them engaged, but it also keeps their minds sharp.

“I decided to pick up a second job not only for financial reasons but also because I craved a sense of fulfillment and variety in my daily routine,” says Tim Morris, CEO of Forex MT4 Indicators. “My main job is rewarding, but I felt a persistent need to explore other interests and passions.”

Morris said, “I have always been fascinated by writing and sharing knowledge, so I started blogging about forex trading strategies in my spare time. This side hustle allows me to connect with a broader audience, share my expertise and learn new things every day. The dynamic nature of this work keeps me engaged and constantly learning, which I find incredibly fulfilling.”

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Adding Variety to Your Resume

Today’s job market is difficult. Anyone who’s looked for a new job in recent years knows this all too well. To fight against the increased competition, people seek second jobs to help beef up their resumes. Not only does this help show an entirely different skill set, but it shows work ethic.

“Often, those just starting out their career path find a second job particularly beneficial,” said Josh Neuman, Founder of Chummy Tees. “It allows them to gain experience that makes their resume truly stand out from others. I see it time and time again. Those who supplement their work with side projects or an additional job role are the ones who stay the most hirable in the long run. Their drive to expand their skill set is something I look for in every candidate interview.”

Providing Protection Against Job Loss

In the past twenty years, we’ve suffered two significant impacts on the labor market — the Great Recession and COVID-19. For younger workers, this has paved the way for job insecurity. As a result, many are taking on a second job because they want something to fall back on if they lose their primary job.

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“Another significant reason for taking on a second job was to create a safety net,” says Morris. “In today’s unpredictable economy, having multiple income streams provides a sense of security.”

Building a Larger Network

Taking on a second job is also a great way to build a larger network of professionals. This network can be used for many different reasons. Many people enjoy the opportunity to bounce ideas off like-minded people. Others find their network helpful for building their businesses.

“My diverse roles lead me to work with distinct groups of people, which, in turn, broadens my professional network,” says Marc Massad, certified pickleball trainer and IFP pickleball ambassador at Velocity Paddle. “For example, my work at Velocity Paddle facilitates connections with sports enthusiasts from different backgrounds.”

The Bottom Line

Gone are the days when most people had one job. More and more people are taking on side hustles and second jobs for a variety of reasons. Not only do they help supplement their income, but they can also facilitate professional growth.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: I Have Two Jobs: 4 Reasons Why One Job Didn’t Cover My Needs Financially