Massive increase in side hustles in 2023

The latest findings from leading independent job board CV-Library reveal that 58.2% of UK workers are planning to take on a side hustle in 2023, driven by the twin priorities of job security (62%) and earning more money (38%).

The latest findings* reveal that 58.2% of UK workers are planning to take on a side hustle in 2023, driven by the twin priorities of job security (62%) and earning more money (38%). 

As the cost of living continues to bite, 76.6% of those considering taking on a side-hustle this year are doing so because they want/need more money. The remainder (23.4%) are looking for additional job security in these unpredictable times. 

With the world’s biggest trial of a four-day working week hailed a breakthrough success (56 out of 61 of the companies involved say they would continue offering a shorter week), more companies are predicted to follow suit. Employees following this working pattern will gain an extra day a week, which could be used to turn passions into side hustles.

This might also fulfil the aim of keeping a main job secure while providing new ways to scratch a creative itch and supplement income amidst the cost-of-living increases.  

Lee Biggins, founder and CEO of CV-Library comments: “As the economic uncertainty looks set to continue, it’s understandable that so many employees are considering new ways to supplement their income while prioritising their job security.”

Biggins continues: With unemployment levels at record lows, supporting employees’ side hustles could boost staff loyalty and help retain key talent. However, there are grey areas that businesses need to be mindful of, particularly for those operating a four-day week.

The benefits of increased motivation, productivity levels, and mental health along with reduced sickness levels could be counterproductive if staff are dedicating their downtime and attention to a side hustle.”

*Survey results from CV-LibrarySurvey based upon 2,250 respondents.

Read more

Latest News

Read More

What parenting teaches us about professional growth

15 August 2025

Employee Benefits & Reward

14 August 2025

In the race to attract and retain top talent, HR leaders are constantly reassessing how to create a compelling employee value proposition that aligns with...

Employment Law

14 August 2025

Step-by-step guide for UK employers to prepare for an employment tribunal. Learn ET1/ET3 tips, witness prep, and settlement strategies....

Newsletter

Receive the latest HR news and strategic content

Please note, as per the GDPR Legislation, we need to ensure you are ‘Opted In’ to receive updates from ‘theHRDIRECTOR’. We will NEVER sell, rent, share or give away your data to third parties. We only use it to send information about our products and updates within the HR space To see our Privacy Policy – click here

Latest HR Jobs

Job Purpose We are seeking a proactive and people-focused HR & People Manager to lead all aspects of human resources. This key leadership role is

Job Purpose We are seeking a proactive and people-focused HR & People Manager to lead all aspects of human resources. This key leadership role is

Act as the local subject matter expert on HRpensation matters, and partner with HR colleagues in providing modelling, guidance and advice onpensation structures across multiple

We are seeking to hire an enthusiastic, passionate and experienced Assistant Director of People and Culture who has hands on experience supporting an HR function

Read the latest digital issue of theHRDIRECTOR for FREE

Read the latest digital issue of theHRDIRECTOR for FREE