Freelancing: When One Job Isn’t Enough: The Path to Multiple Careers

The average length of a professional career is 40 years. But humans are living longer and the idea of ​​working years and retirement is being challenged. Some want to work longer for money and others to stay busy. Whatever the reasons, more and more people are choosing to work longer.

In an interaction with ET Careers, Somdutta Singh, Founder and CEO, Assiduus, explains the changes in this landscape and how people would start having multiple careers during their working life. Edited excerpts:

How common is this phenomenon of people having many jobs in their working life?

A recent study by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics found that people born between 1957 and 1964 held an average of 12.4 jobs between the ages of 18 and 54. In India, the landscape is equally dynamic, with significant changes in workforce behavior and preferences. I’m sure this trend is expected to accelerate, with experts even predicting that the average person will hold between 15 and 20 jobs throughout their career.

But changing jobs may not mean multiple careers, right? How will that play out?

When we talk about having multiple careers, we don’t necessarily mean simply changing jobs. It also means embracing a wide range of experiences and skills. It involves combining a full-time position with perhaps one or more part-time or freelance roles, often in very different fields. This approach is known as a “portfolio career” and allows people to explore their passions, develop new competencies, and create a more fulfilling and dynamic professional life.

In practice, the most important advantage of having multiple careers is the ability to build a solid foundation of transferable skills. For example, a business background can provide valuable ideas and strategies for an entrepreneur, while a creative activity like writing can improve communication and problem-solving skills. By leveraging these cross-functional skills, you can seamlessly transition between roles and industries, opening up a world of opportunities.

Additionally, by pursuing multiple careers, you may have greater job satisfaction and personal growth. A study by Harvard Business Review found that people who pursue side hustles or side careers report higher levels of happiness and satisfaction than those who focus solely on a single job. By spending time on activities you are passionate about, you can find a greater sense of purpose and balance in your lives. In India, the labor market reflects this trend. 80% of professionals have been contemplating a job change, and 88% of professionals between 18 and 24 years old are considering a change. This indicates a strong desire among younger workers to explore various career opportunities. Additionally, the 43% year-over-year increase in the number of professionals adding skills to their LinkedIn profiles highlights the importance of continuous learning and adaptability.

Choosing multiple careers requires a combination of self-reflection, exploration, and strategic planning. How can you evaluate what skills you excel at and how you can apply them in different contexts?

Once you have a clearer idea of ​​your passions and skills, start exploring potential career paths. Conduct informational interviews with professionals in fields that pique your interest, attend industry events, and participate in online courses or certifications to gain a deeper understanding of requirements and opportunities.

As you narrow down your options, consider how you can combine your interests in unique ways. For example, a background in technology and a passion for education could lead to a career in educational technology, while a love of travel and writing skills could translate into a successful travel blogging business.

The Indian job market is characterized by a strong inclination towards career changes: 51% of professionals prefer part-time or online certification courses to enhance their skills. Additionally, 54% of professionals are actively expanding their networks and seeking feedback to align their skills with business priorities. This proactive approach to career development, combined with the rise of the informal economy (in which more than 15 million Indians are self-employed) demonstrates a shift towards more flexible and diverse career paths.

As professionals adapt to these changes, an emphasis on resilience and lifelong learning will be crucial to navigating future employment landscapes.

Remember, having multiple careers is not about doing everything at once, but rather about creating a fulfilling and sustainable path that aligns with your values ​​and goals. Prioritize your time and energy and be willing to adapt and evolve as your interests and circumstances change.