Blueprint for Design

Moonlighting is a term used to describe working for yourself, in addition to working at a full time job. The work is done during off hours, usually at night…in the moonlight. How romantic. It can be exciting and profitable if done properly. This post will review some key aspects to keep in mind if you are considering doing a little moonlighting.

Research

Before starting your own full time business, it’s a good idea to get a taste of what you might expect. The best way to test the waters is to do some moonlighting. But, before you start your side business, do some research.  You need to do as much information gathering about the business as you can. How do you get clients? What do I charge? Am I knowledgeable enough to do it? What do I charge? How do I get paid? What permits and/or licenses do I need? Where will I work? How will I get paid? Will my boss fire me if they find out? Do I have the stamina to work so much? And, how will I get paid?

All this research can be done before you officially start working on the side. So, do it early. Read as much as you can about your business and about how to get business.

Respect

You might be unhappy at work and moonlighting will help get that spice back in your work life. But, check to see if your full time job has any policies about side work. It would be bad news to lose your job with steady salary and benefits if the moonlighting doesn’t turn full time. Also, you would be surprised at how many employers are fine with moonlighting as long as it doesn’t interfere with your job. You never know, your boss may become your first client…

Responsibility

Side work, moonlighting, work work, whatever you call it, it means you have to be responsible. Your clients will still demand your attention. And, not be so forgiving if you blow a deadline. Proper time management and great lines of communication will help keep your clients happy. Don’t forget, a deadline is still a deadline.

Revenue

You’re working all these crazy hours for a reason and that is to get paid. Even though, this might be sidework, you need to treat it with the same respect as a full time job. Have a contract in place. Get paid. If it’s having a deposit in place or whatever other arrangements, don’t be taken for a ride. You deserve to get paid for your services. Demand it.

Resources

After doing your research and being responsible, you may start to get a reputation and be recommended for more work. That work may multiply faster than you can get it done. See Dave’s post. You may need to bring in the cavalary. So, from day one, begin to identify people who you can hire to help you. The worst thing you can do is turn away work. If you have a team in position, you may be quickly on your way to making your moonlighting business into a full time business.

Good Luck!

photo credit: James Jordan