Polyworking, the practice of holding multiple jobs or roles simultaneously, is reshaping the U.S. workforce, with nearly half of workers engaging in it to address financial needs and career goals. A June 2025 Monster survey of over 700 U.S. workers highlights the motivations, impacts, and implications of this trend, particularly for HR professionals.
Key Insights on Polyworking
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Definition and Prevalence:
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Polyworking involves managing multiple jobs or roles at once, moving away from reliance on a single employer.
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47% of U.S. workers are polyworking, with 59% open to holding multiple full-time jobs.
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Work Arrangements:
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50% of polyworkers combine a full-time job with one or more part-time roles.
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28% juggle multiple part-time jobs, while 12% manage more than one full-time job.
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Motivations for Polyworking:
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Financial Necessity: 68% need extra income for living expenses, and 51% say it’s “absolutely essential” for basic costs.
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Debt and Savings: 46% use additional income to pay off debt, and over one-third see it as a safety net against job insecurity.
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Flexibility and Independence: 47% value the financial independence and flexibility polyworking provides.
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Skill and Career Growth: Especially among Gen Z, polyworking is a way to build skills and explore new career paths.
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Impact on Productivity and Mental Health:
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Mixed Outcomes: 29% of workers find polyworking boosts productivity, while 31% report it harms job performance.
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Mental Health Concerns: 26% believe long-term polyworking could negatively affect mental health due to burnout risks.
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Burnout Risks: Balancing multiple roles can lead to stress and fatigue, particularly with conflicting demands.
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Future Outlook:
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38% of workers plan to continue polyworking to achieve career goals, while 31% view it as a temporary solution.
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64% plan to start a second job or side hustle in the next year due to economic anxiety, with many having limited savings (1 in 5 have less than a month’s worth).
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HR Implications:
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Transparency Issues: Only 50% of polyworkers inform their primary employer about their side hustles, raising concerns about focus and loyalty.
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Employer Monitoring: Some companies use productivity tracking or email monitoring tools to oversee polyworking employees.
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Recommended Approach: HR should focus on setting clear productivity goals rather than controlling employees’ external activities.
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Support Strategies: Employers can mitigate burnout by offering flexible hours, stress management resources, and clear performance expectations.
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Why It Matters
Polyworking reflects a shift toward flexibility and autonomy in the workforce, driven by economic pressures and a desire for diverse career experiences. However, it poses challenges for HR, including managing engagement, preventing burnout, and ensuring compliance with employment contracts. As polyworking grows, organizations must adapt by fostering supportive environments that balance employee autonomy with workplace expectations.
