Moonlighting, or taking on additional jobs alongside full-time employment, has seen a significant increase in India’s IT sector in recent years. Factors such as low salaries, rising inflation, the quest for financial independence, job security concerns during the pandemic, and entrepreneurial ambitions are driving IT professionals to engage in moonlighting activities, according to Indeed India.The allure of additional income and the desire to establish contacts that can offer higher-paying opportunities are key motivators for IT professionals like Abhishek. Despite his full-time job as a software developer, Abhishek spends his evenings creating mobile applications and websites for clients found on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. With the goal of eventually transitioning to freelance work, Abhishek’s moonlighting endeavors allow him to earn the same amount as his full-time job with half the time investment.The primary driving factor behind moonlighting in the IT sector is the perceived inadequate compensation for the amount of work being done. A report by HackerRank revealed that Indian developers earn an average salary of about $38,000 per year, significantly lower than their counterparts in the United States. This wage disparity contributes to the growing trend of seeking additional income through moonlighting.The shift to remote work during the pandemic has further fueled the prevalence of moonlighting. In a work-from-home environment, employees have more flexibility and can engage in side jobs without close monitoring. The evolving meaning of work and the changing mindset of young professionals have also contributed to the rise of moonlighting. Work-life balance, flexibility, and breaking away from the traditional 9-5 model have become priorities for many individuals.While moonlighting offers financial benefits and flexibility, it presents challenges in India due to prevailing norms and company policies. Many Indian companies have strict contracts or policies discouraging employees from working elsewhere, viewing moonlighting as conflicting with company interests and potentially leading to disengagement, productivity loss, and breaches of confidentiality.Employers have concerns about moonlighting, including a perceived negative impact on revenue, operating margins, and productivity. Exclusivity clauses in contracts are common, prohibiting employees from pursuing side-hustles even if they are unrelated to the primary industry or simply hobbies. However, recent research by Randstad indicates that allowing employees to take up additional jobs makes an employer more attractive, with 90% of employees agreeing on its appeal.Finding a middle ground between employers and employees is crucial. Companies should establish clear policies that define what employees can or cannot do while delineating their core job requirements. Transparency and upfront disclosure regarding moonlighting intentions can help alleviate concerns and ensure zero conflicts of interest.Some IT companies, such as Infosys, have already embraced the idea of moonlighting by allowing employees to take up “gig work” with prior consent. This shift reflects the recognition that accommodating employees’ desires can contribute to overall satisfaction and productivity.Ultimately, moonlighting requires professional discipline and effective time management. Employees should seek approvals, maintain high levels of work ethic in their primary jobs, and choose side jobs that complement their skills and interests. With the right balance and clear communication between employers and employees, moonlighting can be a viable option for professionals seeking financial independence and entrepreneurial pursuits in India’s IT sector.
