Overemployment Trend Gains Traction Among Tech Workers Earning $3,000 Daily

Overemployment, the practice of holding multiple full-time jobs simultaneously, has gained significant traction, particularly among tech workers who have embraced remote work. This trend has allowed some individuals to earn substantial incomes, with one Reddit user claiming to make over $3,000 a day by juggling five jobs. The practice, also known as polyworking, has been facilitated by advancements in AI, which have enhanced workplace productivity and made it easier for workers to manage multiple roles.

The overemployed community has gained visibility through platforms like Reddit, where the subreddit r/overemployment has over 430,000 members. These individuals share strategies and experiences, aiming to achieve financial freedom through multiple employment. The community's mission is clear: work multiple jobs to reach financial independence. The trend was further highlighted by Suhail Doshi, the founder of tech startups, who shared an experience of firing an employee for suspected overemployment, only to find that the individual continued the practice.

One Reddit user detailed their approach to overemployment, describing how they present themselves as a consultant to avoid all-hands meetings and daily stand-up calls. They maintain a vigilant schedule, checking emails and communication platforms throughout the day and working across multiple time zones. This user's strategy involves solving assigned tasks over a two-week period, allowing them to balance multiple roles effectively. While the authenticity of such claims cannot be verified, they reflect a broader trend of workers managing multiple full-time jobs and earning high salaries.

The practice of overemployment involves navigating ethical boundaries, with some workers using AI to enhance their interview skills and secure multiple roles. The ideal jobs for overemployment are those that are not meeting-heavy, allow for delegation, and are within large companies where visibility is lower. The community advises against attempting overemployment without the necessary skills, as it could jeopardize one's career. Remote work has made overemployment more feasible, with workers finding ways to handle in-person meetings and return-to-office (RTO) requirements by using disused office spots or parking lots for calls.

Overemployed workers argue that they are not part of the problem, as they deliver expected results at multiple jobs. They believe that the real issue lies with "quiet quitters" who slack off and deliver little value while working remotely. The overemployed community insists that their practice is not new and has been known to CEOs and HR departments for over a decade. As remote work continues to evolve, the trend of overemployment is likely to persist, with workers seeking ways to maximize their earnings and achieve financial freedom.