Our Coffee Break features answers to everyday work-related questions (otherwise known as watercooler/coffee break talk)! Send us your questions at corporate@thecorporatesister.com!
Q: I have a side hustle that I love. I want to start promoting it at work to my colleagues and friends. Is it OK or am I crossing some ethical/human resources line here?
A: Dear “Side Hustler”,
This is such an important question these days. As an ex-side hustler, I know so many employees have side hustles nowadays. It’s virtually close to impossible to avoid talking about them at work. It’s challenging not to tell your co-workers about this great beauty product, health and wellness find, or whatever it is that you’re promoting.
In many workplaces, it’s more than acceptable, and is done company-wide. It’s also usually non-invasive and harmless. From selling your daughter’s Girl Scout cookies, your children’s fundraiser items, or collecting donations for a charity walk, selling or soliciting in the workplace usually doesn’t need to be addressed.
However, certain workplaces have strict policies to limit selling or soliciting during work time. You may want to check if your company does fall under this category. If so, make sure to clearly understand what is allowed and what is not. Yet, most policies do not cover lunch time or breaks, and you may be able to use these to promote your side hustle in this instance.
Readers, what do you think?
To Your Success,
The Corporate Sis.
