Think your side hustle is impressing recruiters? Think again. While having a side gig is increasingly common, some ventures can actually hurt your chances of landing that dream job. David Garcia, CEO of ScoutLogic, a background screening service, reveals the surprising side hustles that raise red flags for hiring managers. It's not just about criminal records anymore – recruiters are building a holistic view of your judgment and priorities.
Here are 6 side hustles that might make recruiters hesitate, and why:
1. The Crypto Gamble: While the allure of quick riches in cryptocurrency and NFTs is tempting, the volatile nature of these markets can lead to impulsive, high-risk decisions. Recruiters worry about employees distracted by market swings or promoting risky schemes during work hours. Imagine a financial advisor actively day-trading instead of focusing on client portfolios – not a great look!
2. The MLM Trap: Multi-level marketing schemes often involve aggressive tactics and blurred boundaries between personal and professional life. Recruiters cringe at the thought of employees using company time or resources to recruit colleagues or push products onto clients.
3. The Influencer Dilemma: A strong online presence can be an asset, but controversial content can damage a company's reputation. Imagine a nurse promoting alcohol-fueled parties and divisive political views on Instagram – it clashes with the image a hospital strives for.
4. The Gig Economy Question Mark: Gig jobs like ridesharing or delivery driving aren't inherently bad, but they can signal financial instability or divided loyalties. A high-earner moonlighting as an Uber driver raises questions about their financial management or commitment to their primary role.
5. The Time-Drain: Side hustles demanding significant time investment can conflict with full-time responsibilities. Recruiters may wonder if someone running a thriving consulting business is truly committed to their day job or just using it as a safety net.
6. The Political Minefield: In politically neutral industries, side hustles with strong political messaging can be a deal-breaker. A lawyer blogging against the very clients their firm represents creates a major perception problem, regardless of their ability to separate personal and professional views.
But here's the controversial part: Should recruiters judge candidates based on their side hustles, even if they're legal and ethical? Does personal financial ambition automatically translate to professional distraction?
Garcia emphasizes that context is key. While these side hustles can raise concerns, they don't automatically disqualify a candidate. However, they do prompt recruiters to dig deeper and assess potential risks.
What do you think? Are these red flags justified, or are recruiters being overly cautious? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
