Question

Within the combined context of NO loyalty by employers whatsoever and, thus, employees always on the lookout for warning signs of a job loss and their next opportunity, the “gig economy” has emerged. And, also, if you want to get ahead (or even stay afloat), the “side hustle”. Its unfair and probably illegal to restrict, or even require advance approval, of an employee’s other work outside or work except for conflicts of interest.

Write no more than 7 bullet points outlining a fair/real world and reasonable policy for Firm X on Employees’ Work Beyond Firm X.

Answer 1

The gig economy is catching up and is getting more popular, especially amongst the youngsters as it gives them a better work-life balance, removes monotony as they keep 'hopping' to the next project and also gain better work-experience as gig jobs are mostly done for larger organizations.

From the Organizations' point of view, flexible work hours will be more economical, will reduce operating costs and also help in improving productivity. This eventually will be more beneficial for the core business.

Thus, some of the suggestions for the 'Work Beyond' policy for Firm X are as follows:

• Firm X will implement 3 shifts from next month - 1st shift 0600hrs to 1400hrs, 2nd shift 1400hrs to 2200hrs, and night shift 2200hrs to 0600hrs. This is mainly to save time for employees on commuting during peak hours and to create Flexi work hours.
• Employees will have 3 days of 'work from home' option, in a month. This can be taken consecutively only on the resp. manager's approval.
• Employees can take up projects outside of Firm X only of a non-competitor
• Employees taking up 'Gig projects' must do so with their resp. manager's approval.
• The 'Gig project' employees will need to sign a 'Non-Disclosure Agreement' to ensure they do not disclose any of the information regarding Firm X to the gig project companies.
• The 'Gig contracts' can be taken only for a maximum of 3 months at a stretch, no more than that.
• The 'Gig project' Employees must ensure that they meet their monthly targets which will be closely tracked by their resp. managers. If it is found that the target is not being met, the resp. manager's will have the discretion to disapprove taking up 'Gig projects' outside of the Firm X.

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