The study surveyed 1,200 professionals and found that additional financial income is the main driving force behind having a side hustle. In fact, over two thirds (67.7%) of Brits said they would consider giving up their side hustle if their employer paid them more. The other reasons why Brits started their side hustle include:
- To earn more money (59.9%
- Just for fun (14.1%)
- To improve a hobby (10.4%)
- For added job security (9.4%)
- To start a new career (6.3%)
Interestingly, the study also found that a third (33.2%) of Brits plan to eventually make their side hustle a full-time role, rising to 34.8% amongst women.
Lee Biggins, founder and CEO of CV-Library, comments on the findings:
“Our findings show that while almost one in five Brits have a side hustle, not very many seem to have one out of their own choice. Rather than taking up a side hustle because of personal interests or for fun, people are being forced to find other ways to top up their monthly income.
“What’s worrying about so many Brits struggling for cash is that while Britain is almost at full employment, the quality of jobs on offer is dropping. Rather than trying to scrimp and save on salaries, ensure that your offerings are in line with the market rate. You’ll find employees are more loyal and willing to dedicate themselves to the job at hand.”
What’s more, despite over a quarter of employers (28%) having a policy on working on the side, plenty of the UK’s professionals are putting in extra hours every week for their side hustle. In fact, a third (30.4%) of Brits work an extra 10 hours per week on their side hustle.
Biggins concludes:
“It’s concerning that nearly a third of Brits are working an extra 10 hours or more a week in their side hustle, as they could be putting themselves in serious danger of burnout. It’s tough enough at times to get through a full working week, let alone while working two jobs.
“Policies on working on the side are in place for a reason. Working so many extra hours is bound to distract anyone from their main job. As an employer, you need to make sure that your employees don’t feel like they have to pick up a side hustle. Put regular meetings in place to review their salary and give them the chance to voice any concerns before escalating the matter.”
