Despite the number of people starting a side business on top of their full-time employment rising by 32% in the last decade, over half of businesses admit they have no policy on employees working on the side. If there is a policy in place, then it’s your responsibility and is therefore of utmost importance to check that your current work contract allows you to work a side job. You risk being fired – or even sued – if you breach your contract. If there’s nothing stated in your contract, then your employer can’t forbid you from starting your side business, but you must make sure it doesn’t affect your current job.
It’s up to you whether you tell your employer that you’re starting a side business. They might worry that your commitment to their company is wavering or that you might use work time to complete tasks for your company. On the other hand, your new business might be beneficial to your employer’s company or even complement it. Many companies have been known to actively encourage employees to pursue a side hustle, since it encourages them to pick up new skills and the company doesn’t have to pay anything towards it.
Weigh up the pros and cons and decide if honesty is the best policy. This article on part-time self-employment gives you more detailed information on coordinating with your employer and other points to bear in mind when it comes to your full-time job.