Double The Hustle: Why Second Jobs Are Soaring

July 6, 2023

Are you thinking about getting a second job? If so, you’re not alone. At least 6.6% of the workforce has more than one job with many more considering this option. The number of multiple job holders has been steadily increasing since the pandemic began in early 2020, rising from 788,000 to nearly a million by March 2023, according to the ABS .

A recent poll conducted by Edge Recruitment on LinkedIn showed that 52% of respondents were considering a second job or actively looking for one in the next quarter.

So why are so many people considering a side hustle? The primary driver is financial stress. As interest rates and the cost of living continues to bite, more people are considering a second job to make ends meet. Other reasons include working on a passion project or because a primary job is part-time or casual.

Of the 4 million people who earned less than $1000 per week in their main job, 8.9% (350,000) had a second job. Of people who earned $1000 or more per week, 4.5% had a second job, showing that lower-income earners are more likely to work multiple jobs.

The negatives

What will the consequences be of this growing trend? Spending more hours at work can lead to reduced work-life balance, a potential decline in overall well-being and physical and mental exhaustion. Striking a healthy balance between work and personal life is crucial to avoid burnout and maintain overall happiness and productivity. This will be harder to avoid for those adding more work hours to their week.

The positives

It’s not all doom and gloom though. Additional jobs can provide increased financial security, a sense of control, and the ability to meet financial obligations. They may also offer opportunities to diversify skills, expand professional networks, and gain experience across multiple industries.

If you're considering taking on a second job, it's important to approach the decision thoughtfully. Here are a few things to consider:

Notify your current employer
It is a good idea to let your current employer know if you are taking a second job. Additional employers may pose a conflict of interest and some employers have clauses about second jobs in their contracts.
Identify your skills and interests
Look for second job opportunities that align with your skills and interests. This can not only make the experience more enjoyable but also provide avenues for personal and professional growth.
Seek flexibility
Consider second job options that offer flexible working hours, allowing you to manage your time effectively and minimize conflicts with your primary job and personal commitments.
Evaluate your current financial situation
Understand your income and expenses to determine if a second job is necessary. Create a budget to gain clarity on your financial goals and assess how a second job would impact your overall financial well-being.
Prioritize self-care
Remember to prioritize self-care and allocate time for relaxation, hobbies, and spending quality time with loved ones. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is key to avoiding burnout.

There are pros and cons to taking on a second job. While it can alleviate financial strain, it can also create more challenges. Assess how much time and energy you can realistically devote to a second job. Maintaining a healthy equilibrium between work and personal life is essential for well-being and successfully maintaining both roles.

Words by Jo Kiley

Would you like to read more?

Stay updated with job search advice, the latest jobs, news and events from Edge Recruitment by subscribing to our newsletter.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Mid-Year Property Recruitment Outlook for SA

By Corrin Corrin • July 1, 2025

For employers and candidates, the FY25 hiring landscape presents a mix of opportunity and challenge — and demand is rising across the industry.

Why EOFY Is the Smartest Time to Change Jobs or Hire

By Corrin Corrin • June 24, 2025

The end of the financial year is a busy time across South Australia’s property and real estate industry — not just for accountants and agencies reviewing the books, but also for professionals reassessing their career direction. Whether you’re in sales, property management, leasing, or support, July often marks a fresh start . And if you've been considering a career move, there are some compelling reasons why right now might be the best time to take action . 1. New Budgets Mean New Hires At the start of a new financial year, most property and real estate businesses reset their annual budgets. That means: New headcount is approved Growth targets are locked in Teams that were stretched thin during the past year are finally given the green light to hire For job seekers, this creates a surge in demand for talent — particularly for roles in sales, business development, and property management where revenue growth is key. Agencies are also more likely to invest in onboarding, training, and marketing new staff now, rather than mid-year or during the Christmas slowdown. 2. Performance Reviews Are a Catalyst for Change EOFY is traditionally when many employees receive formal performance reviews and commission payouts. While positive reviews can lead to promotions or salary increases, for others, this period can shine a spotlight on: Unmet expectations Lack of progression opportunities Underappreciation or under-compensation If you’ve walked away from your review feeling deflated, that’s a clear sign it may be time to explore new opportunities — particularly if your current role no longer aligns with your long-term goals. 3. The Spring Property Market Is Coming — Get In Early We all know that spring is one of the busiest times of year for the property market, and smart candidates position themselves well in advance. If you start your job search in July: You have time to transition into a new role You can complete onboarding and training You’ll be ready to hit the ground running when market activity spikes in September Waiting until spring often means you’ll be competing with more candidates for fewer roles, with less lead-in time to settle into your new environment. 4. Candidate Supply Is Still Tight — Leverage That Advantage Across South Australia, we’re still seeing a shortage of experienced candidates in many parts of the property and real estate industry. Sales agents, property managers, and leasing consultants with proven track records are in high demand — and employers are increasingly willing to offer: Competitive salary and commission structures Flexible working arrangements Stronger professional development pathways If you’ve got the experience and drive, now is the time to negotiate from a position of strength. 5. Clarity and Momentum Matter There’s something about July that naturally invites people to reset. The first half of the year is behind you, and there’s still time to make big career moves before the year is out. Whether you’ve outgrown your current role, want to break into a new segment of the industry, or are just feeling burnt out — making a change now can give you the clarity and momentum you need. HOT TIP: Don’t Wait for “The Perfect Time” Many people stay in roles longer than they should because they’re waiting for the “right moment.” But as with most facets of the property and real estate industry — timing is everything . With budgets resetting, hiring activity on the rise, and the spring market just around the corner, EOFY is the window of opportunity you’ve been waiting for. Ready to Make Your Move? Edge Recruitment specialises in connecting property and real estate professionals with the right roles across South Australia. Whether you're actively job hunting or just want to explore what’s out there, our team is here to help. Get in touch for a confidential chat — your next role could be just around the corner.