Polyworking is a growing trend of managing multiple concurrent jobs rather than relying on a single source of income. It heralds a new phase in what has been known as the "portfolio career" or the practice of "slashers"—a concept introduced by Marci Alboher in her book, "One Person, Multiple Careers." Polyworking can have a major impact on your brand and is one of 9 personal branding trends for 2024. Polyworking is not rare. “Almost half (46%) of workers are polyworking with a side hustle or additional job, and a further 36% plan on starting one in the future,” according to Owl Labs.
Polyworking provides employees with multiple sources of income, which can increase income and offer financial security if one job is lost or if one income stream diminishes.
Engaging in different types of work allows for the development of a diverse skill set, which can make an employee more marketable and better equipped for career advancement. Exposure to various industries, roles and colleagues can accelerate professional growth and open up new career paths.