SA Profile Magazine Volume 8 - 2025 | Page 72

EDITORIAL SIDE HUSTLES

Embrace the side hustle boom

Workers are increasingly pursuing second jobs. According to a survey by Bankrate, 53 % of Gen Zers have a second job, as do half of millennials and 40 % of Gen Xers.
As a business leader, you may worry that having a second job could make your employees less committed when they ' re working for you. However, think again: second jobs bring numerous advantages that you can harness to create a workplace where innovation thrives. Let’ s explore the business benefits and discuss what you can do to support your employees ' pursuits.
The business benefits of second jobs
• Employee wellbeing: Happy employees are more productive. When they have the satisfaction of pursuing a passion through a second job, they experience a wellbeing boost that benefits your workplace. The extra income and financial security that come with a second job further enhance their wellbeing.
• Diversified skill sets: Pursuing a second job naturally helps employees develop new skills that they may not have acquired in their role with your company. This accelerates their professional development, and they can bring these skills back to your workplace.
• Enhanced creativity: The creativity fostered by a second job can bring fresh perspectives and an entrepreneurial mindset to your workplace, driving innovation that benefits your business.
• Employee loyalty: By supporting and encouraging your employees’ pursuits, you demonstrate loyalty and commitment, making them feel valued. This boosts staff retention and loyalty.
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In short, supporting employees in pursuit of their second jobs ultimately results in building a more dynamic, skilled and resilient workforce.