James Heelan comments in Canadian HRReporter on what employers should consider if employees who are returning to the office are moonlighting on the side.

He says some issues will likely arise, but employers have to be careful "that they remain competitive, and that they remain a desirable place to work." Employers are struggling with wanting people back in the office, but "at the same time, not alienating their workforce by being too strict when people are now used to a certain degree of flexibility.”

James says the big question is whether moonlighting takes away from the main work of the employee, and if it in any way impacts the reputation of the business. The important thing is to have contractual provisions that basically say, “if you're going to have other work, then we expect to know about it and may have something to say about it.”

“Ultimately, it comes down to how do you make sure that you're retaining your employees…and ensuring a workplace where people feel engaged and feel that they're being treated fairly. And that you're getting value for what you're paying your employees.”

Canadian HRReporter subscribers can read the full article here.