Balancing Night Shifts and Day Jobs: Can I Work Both Without Losing My MNC Position?

Dear Sir/Madam, I am currently working the night shift as a finance executive in an MNC company. I want to work in a showroom during the day, such as Armani, Tommy Hilfiger, and Lifestyle, etc. Would this be considered a dual job? If I pursue this opportunity, could I face termination or be blacklisted by my current MNC company? How would my company find out about my dual employment? I am seeking another job due to financial difficulties. I would greatly appreciate any guidance or advice on this matter. Is there a way for me to explore other job opportunities without risking my current position?

Thank you for your assistance.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Dear Rahul, please note the following:

a) If the rules of your organization permit, then there is nothing wrong with moonlighting per se. Therefore, please check the provisions of the appointment letter first. However, most companies do not allow their employees to take on a second job.

b) The additional factor to consider is your health. You are already working at night, and night duties are more strenuous than day duties. If you are spending 9-10 hours in your regular employment, including time spent commuting, when will you rest and do household chores? Your second earning should not come at the expense of your health.

c) Even if you take on a second job surreptitiously, inform your employer to categorize you as a consultant. When invoicing, you may use the name of a non-earning family member like your mother, brother, or sister. However, it remains to be seen how branded or organized companies will allow this type of arrangement. With GST in place, the company will have to treat you as an Unregistered Dealer (URD). Nonetheless, the company will not incur financial loss due to URD as they can claim input credit.

d) If the company designates you as a casual employee, the post-GST rules are unknown to me. However, the company will have to pay 4.5% ESI on the remuneration they pay you. This will be an additional burden, and they may seek to recover this amount from you.

Lastly, let me comment on your post. Besides your regular employment, you wish to take on extra work to fulfill family obligations. Your commitment to your family is commendable. Your post reflects the strength and integrity of your character. Keep it up!

All the best!

Dinesh Divekar

Since the questioner is from the U.S., I think it depends upon the state's labor law.

Thank you, Dinesh Divekar Sir. You are always right that I need to think about my health as well. However, I have a financial problem. I do not want to do a job, but I will have to. So, I have the option to work in a showroom, and I am going to join. I have completed my MBA in Finance and Marketing, and the shift will be 8 hours. I will manage this; however, I am fearful about what will happen if my previous company finds out. Please guide me on any possible way so I can pursue this job. I will be thankful to you. Please advise me.

Thanks,
Rahul.

It could definitely be a problem if your company comes to know that you are into a dual job. So the best thing is to choose one between the two for your future and well-being.

I agree with Mr. Dinesh. If you really need a second job, please go through your company's service rule manual. Sometimes, this type of terms and conditions is stated in the service rules, not in the appointment letter.

Good luck!

Faria Mustafa

So far as I understand, dual employment is not permissible under the law. Part-time second employment is a different issue. You have to choose between both jobs as to which job you wish to keep and which you wish to leave. If you are a regular employee or even a casual employee, you will have two ESI numbers and two PF numbers, which is illegal.

There are people in India who work from 9 am to 6 pm in one company and from 7 pm to 10 pm in another firm. There is no restriction on working in two jobs as long as both employers are aware of your dual employment and have no objections.