In Canada, 5.7% of workers, or just over one million people, held more than one simultaneous job in 2018.

As long as working two jobs doesn’t affect your physical or mental health, there’s nothing stopping you from doing it. Whatever the reason, it is important to know the benefits and inconvenients of such a practice in the short, medium and long term.

The benefits

Working two jobs can bring many benefits. This allows you to:

Vary the types of activities. If your first job confines you to work independently and without frequent social interactions, finding a job in services or one that involves more frequent interpersonal relationships will feed your communication needs.
To feel useful and effective. Who said work doesn’t bring satisfaction? Having two challenging jobs can be easier and more enjoyable for some people than having just one boring job.
Make more money. Obviously, people who work without counting their hours manage to save a little money for a future project.
Spend time. Some people would rather find a second part-time job or do volunteer work than sit at home twiddling their thumbs.
Accomplish. It is not uncommon to see self-employed workers take on a second job to be able to devote themselves to their profession, which is also a passion.

The inconvenients

Despite the many advantages, working two jobs simultaneously can also cause some disadvantages.

Overwork. If your two jobs require you to work more than 45 hours per week, you will need to schedule frequent relaxation and exercise activities to keep up.
A drop in morale. When you work too much, there are invariably repercussions on your morale and mental health. Accumulated fatigue and the lack of activities outside of work do not allow you to acquire healthy lifestyle habits.
A drop in productivity. Even if your goal is to perform better, you shouldn’t ask too much of your body and mind. Too high a workload and number of hours worked could cause a drop in productivity in the medium term.

A personal choice

Working two jobs sometimes present logistical challenges. Indeed, you must ensure that your working hours do not overlap with each other. It is sometimes difficult, but not impossible!

It is also important that this rhythm of life does not disturb your physical or psychological health. Giving yourself days off and rest each week is essential to maintain a good balance in life.

With the arrival of the Covid-19 pandemic in Quebec, your schedule may have changed. Telecommuting limits the hours spent in traffic to and from the office. Some employers may have reduced working hours or even laid off some employees. Having a second job can therefore fill the free time that has been added to your daily life.

Whatever the reason for wanting a second job, we can support you and offer you personalized advice. Contact the Extra Multi-Ressources experts today.