By Farah Siddiqi
Ohio News Connection
Americans working multiple jobs to cover living expenses has become increasingly common, and Ohioans are no exception.
According to U.S. Census data, a significant portion of Midwestern workers hold secondary jobs. A study by the consulting firm My Perfect Resume found 71% of U.S. workers rely on additional income to make ends meet.
Jasmine Escalara, reinvention coach for My Perfect Resume, said while this extra work is necessary for many, it can negatively affect job performance.
“Forty-nine percent of people surveyed said that their secondary source of income is actually impacting their performance at their primary job,” Escalara said.
She said the imbalance decreases the ability to achieve a lifestyle supporting a work-life balance. The lack of productivity brought on by stress and fatigue from a primary job means you are likely not putting in the extra investment needed to get higher pay, better titles or job promotions.
Another shift affecting workers is the growing trend of companies mandating full-time office returns. For Ohioans who established routines around remote work, the shift can create disruptions and force difficult career decisions. Some workers may need to seek new opportunities if flexibility is a priority.
Escalara advised employees to evaluate their options and consider a change if necessary.
“If you have gotten a taste of this and you don’t want to go back, then it’s really about, ‘I may need to find another company that’s going to be able to give me this flexibility,'” Escalara said.
Among those surveyed, 21% of people reported experiencing stress and burnout and spending less time with family and friends while juggling two jobs.
Pictured at top: Data from the consulting firm My Perfect Resume’s “State of Supplemental Income” report shows paying down debt, paying off student loans, saving for major life goals and covering living expenses are the top reasons for working multiple jobs. (Artiemedvedev | Adobe Stock)