The secret ‘cash-boosting’ employment trend taking over Australia that could land staff in big trouble – and bosses have no idea
There is a new trend in companies called “overwork” where employees work remotely and hold down two jobs without their bosses knowing.
Often, this behavior goes unnoticed as the organized employee strategically schedules meetings, Zoom calls, and deadlines to ensure there are no overlaps.
But if managers find out, it can have serious consequences: they can lose their jobs and possibly even end their careers.
Still, that doesn’t stop workers from trying and making more money amid skyrocketing inflation and the cost of living.
Melbourne-based author and LinkedIn specialist Sue Ellson told FEMAIL she expected the trend to have started earlier, especially when some industries started trialling the four-day working week.
This trend really shows how we are moving from an ‘era of [in exchange] “It’s time to move from the ‘for-money’ model to a ‘value-for-money’ model,” she said.
‘Anyone who can satisfy multiple employers at the same time by combining their own talents and complementary resources has found a way to deliver the ‘value’ an employer wants.
“If an employer doesn’t notice this, this behavior is likely to continue. People with multiple jobs will use technology more creatively than others.”
Employees are starting to work two jobs at once to earn more money without telling their bosses (stock image)
But if managers find out, it could have serious consequences, including dismissal and possibly the end of your career.
Sue Ellson (pictured) shared her thoughts on being ‘overworked’
But employees who need to be physically present at work, such as doctors or teachers, miss this opportunity.
Ms Ellson stressed that multitaskers portray the wrong image to employers and that they need to think carefully from a moral and legal perspective.
She also hopes the trend will prompt employers to rethink the way they operate and the way they exchange value with employees.
Many people have taken on two or more jobs to earn more money, especially in Australia, where inflation and interest rates are set to rise until 2024.
But experts, such as IT gurus and administrative staff, have known about the ‘hack’ for years.
Melbourne author and LinkedIn specialist Sue Ellson told FEMAIL she thought the trend would have started earlier when some sectors started trialling the four-day working week
The decision to work multiple jobs is generally approved by employees, but some say it’s not worth the stress.
‘I’ve heard of people who don’t outsource anything, they’re just efficient. As long as you do your job. What’s the problem? Let them flourish!’ wrote one person online.
“I have three full-time jobs. It’s WILD,” said another.
“If the company doesn’t figure this out soon, I think you’re doing enough,” said a third.
‘I was working two tech jobs at the same time and making a lot of money, but the stress was too much. I was getting migraines every day.’
“Tech jobs require you to sign a non-disclosure agreement, a non-compete agreement. If you get caught, there are legal consequences. It’s a great way to end your career,” one warned.