Tips for Design Moonlighting While Remaining Professional.
This article is a direct response to Andy Rutledge’s article “A Sense of Non-Commitment,” if you have not seen the article I would suggest that you give it a read. The article is well written and though out as is typical of Andy. I have however been freelancing on the side for some time now, so naturally this article peaked my interest. I however have never considered it to be a conflict of interest with my employer and have even discussed the subject with them before. Andy brings up a number of points in his article that I agree with, however I believe that there are some items that he may have missed that also effect such a complex ethical situation.
The one and only area where I do not agree is where Andy states “perhaps things at your real job might get so backed up that you have to leave my project languishing while you take care of your real work.” Now I believe that this is a valid concern of a client you may take on for freelance work, however you should be upfront about your main job, and the fact that you are completing the project in your spare time. If they have a problem with this, then they most likely will not use your services, which at that point you could suggest the services of your full-time employer.
That said, here are some tips that I have compiled to help you remain professional and still utilize your entrepreneurial spirit. 