Career Strategy • January 3, 2012

Considering Side Projects? 5 Questions to Test Your Ethics

Moonlighting can be an ethical gray area. Before pursuing outside opportunities alongside your primary role, use these five criteria to evaluate your path.

The landscape of "side projects" has evolved. Take, for example, Microsoft’s initiative to allow employees to develop applications outside of work hours. This created a win-win scenario: employees enjoyed creative freedom and additional income, while the company benefited from a surge in innovative applications for their marketplace.

However, navigating the intersection of a full-time career and side ventures requires careful consideration. Before you dive in, consider these five fundamental questions:

If you had to explain your side venture to a trusted mentor or family member, would you feel comfortable being completely honest? If you find yourself needing to justify actions that seem disingenuous, it is likely an indicator of an underlying ethical conflict.

Understand the legal landscape regarding ownership of your ideas. Employment contracts often include clauses about intellectual property created during your tenure. Ensure you aren't risking your work by operating in a legal gray area.

When a side venture creates value for your employer or their customers, you are on firm ground. Alignment with your employer’s interests often turns a potential conflict into a supported opportunity.

Instead of working in isolation, consider whether your current organization might be interested in funding or supporting your idea. Transparency can often lead to collaborative growth rather than competition.

Balancing risks and rewards is vital. Entrepreneurship is demanding; ensure you have validated your market need before investing significant time and resources. Don't let enthusiasm cloud the daily reality of business viability.

Ultimately, a great idea deserves commitment. If you have a passion project, pursue it with diligence, but ensure your foundation, legal, ethical, and practical, is solid before you launch.

About Talascend

Talascend is a specialized talent solutions firm connecting engineering, technical, and skilled trades professionals with the companies building America’s infrastructure, energy systems, defense capabilities, and manufacturing base. With nearly 80 years of industry experience, Talascend serves clients nationwide from its headquarters in Troy, Michigan.