TrainingBriefs® Why Understanding Polyworking Matters

Polyworking means holding more than one paid job or source of income at the same time. It may include freelancing, gig work, running a business, or working for multiple employers.

Job stacking usually means working two full-time jobs at once — often during overlapping hours. Polyworking is broader and can include part-time, seasonal, or project-based work.

Many employees polywork for financial stability, career growth, or personal fulfillment. It can also reflect changing expectations for flexibility and control over work.

Polyworking often occurs in creative fields, tech, education, hospitality, and gig work. However, it’s now appearing across nearly every industry.

Remote and flexible work schedules have made it easier to hold multiple roles. Technology also allows people to work for organizations anywhere in the world.