Reed has faced significant challenges in the job market, having been laid off four times within four years. Determined to find stability, he decided to pursue an unconventional route: working two full-time jobs at the same time.

In March 2020, Reed, a thirty-something resident of New York, lost his position in strategic operations within the tech sector. After a six-month job search, he secured a new role, only to face another layoff less than a month later due to the company’s financial difficulties. By December 2023, Reed had lost his fourth job in just over three years, realizing that job security was elusive in the current landscape.

“Getting hired was fairly easy due to numerous opportunities, but retaining a position was the real challenge,” Reed told Business Insider, opting for anonymity due to possible professional repercussions. According to TrueUp’s layoff tracker, over 800,000 tech employees worldwide were laid off between 2020 and 2023.

The Eureka Moment

After his fourth layoff, Reed had a revelation: the only way to combat continuous unemployment was to secure two jobs. He determined that maintaining two full-time remote positions was essential for financial security. This year, he is projected to earn around $280,000 from both jobs, with salaries of approximately $175,000 and $150,000, respectively.

Supporting Family and Financial Responsibilities

With this dual income, Reed provides financial support for his partner—who has been unemployed for three years—helps his parents with their mortgage, and assists his niece and nephew with college expenses. “These two jobs are crucial for my family’s financial stability, allowing us to maintain our apartment and save money,” he explained. “I simply don’t have a choice.”

The Rise of Job Juggling in America

Reed’s experience reflects a growing trend among Americans who are secretly balancing multiple remote jobs to enhance their income. Business Insider has spoken with over two dozen individuals engaged in this “overemployment,” using their additional earnings for travel, health expenses, or everyday bills. While juggling jobs without employer consent can pose risks like burnout, many find the financial rewards outweigh the potential downsides.

Navigating the Job Search and Remote Work Landscape

After his fourth layoff, Reed focused on finding remote positions. In March 2024, he secured his first job, and in December, he began job juggling. When pursuing remote opportunities, Reed faced obstacles, including a cancellation of remote work policies by companies he applied to, such as Amazon, which revealed a shift to in-office work. Thankfully, he accepted offers from companies that maintained remote flexibility.

Managing Stress in Job Juggling

Reed’s workweek typically spans about 60 hours, including evenings and weekends. Despite the stress of managing two jobs, he has developed strategies to alleviate it. By waking up earlier, prioritizing sufficient sleep, and focusing on one job at a time, he improves his productivity and reduces overwhelm. He also strategically blocks out meeting times to avoid overlaps.

The Long-Term Outlook and Risks of Job Juggling

While Reed enjoys the financial advantages of job juggling, he acknowledges the potential for burnout. The job search has become increasingly competitive, often requiring multiple interview rounds and assessments, extending the time it takes to secure offers. Looking to the future, Reed aims to continue his dual-job strategy for three to five more years but recognizes that sustainability is a concern due to the risk of burnout.

Do you have insights or experiences about juggling multiple jobs without employer knowledge? Share your story by contacting the reporter via email at jzinkula@businessinsider.com or Signal at jzinkula.29.

The Rise of Job Juggling: A Modern Solution for Financial Stability

As the job market continuously fluctuates, many individuals are seeking innovative ways to secure their financial futures. One emerging trend is the phenomenon of juggling multiple full-time remote jobs, a strategy gaining traction among professionals facing job uncertainty.

The Challenge of Job Security

Job security has become increasingly elusive in today’s economic landscape. Many people, particularly in industries prone to layoffs, find themselves in precarious situations, struggling to maintain stable employment. The reluctance to rely on a single income source has prompted a creative solution for many: working two full-time jobs simultaneously.

The Financial Benefits of Dual Employment

For those who embrace the dual employment model, the financial rewards can be significant. Professionals can potentially increase their earning power, allowing them to support families, pay down debts, or save for future investments. This strategy not only helps mitigate the risk of sudden unemployment but can also provide a much-needed financial cushion.

Work-Life Balance and Time Management

While managing two jobs can be daunting, many individuals have found effective ways to balance their workload. Establishing a structured schedule, prioritizing tasks, and creating a separate workspace for each job can help maintain focus and productivity. Additionally, setting aside time for breaks ensures that mental and physical well-being are not sacrificed in the pursuit of financial gain.

Navigating Employer Expectations

Despite the benefits, juggling multiple jobs comes with its own set of challenges. Many professionals must operate discreetly to avoid conflicts with employers who may not condone dual employment. Transparency can lead to complications, especially if an employer mandates in-office work or has specific policies regarding outside commitments.

Strategies for Sustained Success

To thrive in the dual-job landscape, individuals often develop strategies that enhance their productivity while minimizing stress. Time-blocking, careful calendar management, and prioritizing essential tasks can facilitate smoother transitions between roles. By focusing on effective communication and organization, one can maintain a productive rhythm that leads to success in both roles.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Work

As more individuals explore the benefits of job juggling, it’s clear this trend reflects a broader shift in how we view work and employment. While it’s not without risks, the financial and personal advantages of dual employment can lead to greater job satisfaction and stability for those who successfully navigate the challenges. The future of work may well include a greater acceptance of multiple income streams, reshaping the traditional employment landscape.