Day job secrets can be hard to keep. This week Mark looks at a real situation from listener Phil, whose side business is closely related to his day job and whose coworker has become a workplace troll about it. Mark offers a practical framework for navigating the tension between your employer and your entrepreneurial ambitions, plus unusual email marketing tips and the powerful concept of “bringing your own weather.”<\/p>\n
Mark tackles a question that comes up constantly for part-time entrepreneurs: should you tell your boss about your side business? The answer, especially when your side business relates to your day job, is almost always yes. Transparency with people you trust at your company protects you and builds goodwill.<\/p>\n
The episode uses Phil's real situation as a case study. Phil teaches engineering online, which is adjacent to his day job expertise. His boss knows and is fine with it, but a jealous coworker has been complaining to management. Mark's framework for handling this: do not feed the troll, check in with your boss proactively, and be prepared for any outcome. The worst scenario is being blindsided. Having the conversation early puts you in control.<\/p>\n
Mark also covers the concept of “bringing your own weather,” inspired by Zig Ziglar, and shares email marketing insights about subject line length, front-loaded links, and why accuracy matters more than personalization.<\/p>\n
The side hustle economy has gone mainstream since 2017. Over 40% of Americans now have some form of side income, and many companies have explicit policies about outside work. The creator economy has normalized monetizing professional expertise online. Phil's situation of teaching his field online would barely raise an eyebrow at most companies today. Mark's advice to be transparent and keep a clear separation between day job and side business remains the safest and smartest approach.<\/p>\n
If you found this episode helpful, you might also enjoy:<\/p>\n
Listen to Late Night Internet Marketing on Apple Podcasts<\/a> or subscribe at latenightim.com\/internet-marketing-podcast\/<\/a>. Have a question for Mark? Call the digital recorder at 214-444-8655 or drop a comment below.<\/p>\n