The Modern Workplace and the Double Life of Company Tech
For many employees, a work-issued laptop is more than just a tool for completing tasks. It becomes an essential part of daily life, connecting individuals to their jobs, managing personal responsibilities, and even supporting side ventures. A recent survey highlights how this technology is increasingly being used for purposes beyond its intended function.
According to a study involving 1,000 employees, there is a growing trend of using company devices for side hustles, job applications, and even interviews. The numbers are telling:
- 36 percent of workers have used company devices for side hustle activities.
- 33 percent have applied for other jobs using company tech.
- 29 percent have interviewed with other companies on company laptops.
- 22 percent have worked for another full-time employer using their current company’s device.
These figures reflect a broader reality: in today’s economy, many people need to juggle multiple roles to make ends meet. Whether it’s managing caregiving duties, pursuing passion projects, or navigating career transitions, the company-issued laptop often serves as the only reliable tool available.
However, while this hustle is understandable, it comes with risks that are frequently overlooked.
When Work Tech Becomes Personal
Employment attorney Kelsey Szamet, a partner at Kingsley Szamet Employment Lawyers, notes that these findings are not surprising. She emphasizes that company policies often fail to keep up with the evolving needs of employees, particularly for women of color who may be working multiple jobs to cover living expenses.
Szamet points out that the shift to hybrid and remote work has created new challenges. Many companies have not updated their policies around digital boundaries or employee flexibility, leading to situations where employees feel compelled to stretch company resources to manage their lives.
This might involve checking a Shopify store during lunch breaks or participating in a Zoom interview between meetings. While these actions may seem harmless, they can lead to significant consequences if not handled carefully.
What’s Okay and What Could Get You Fired
Not all use of company technology is considered misconduct. Checking personal emails, for example, is generally not a major issue. However, actions such as forwarding sensitive client information to personal cloud accounts or watching inappropriate content on work devices can lead to legal and reputational problems.
Szamet explains that the difference lies in how the technology is used. Sharing company data with third parties or accessing inappropriate content poses serious risks. She suggests that companies should focus on setting clear expectations rather than relying solely on surveillance software.
Transparency, training, and written policies can help build trust and protect both employees and employers. By creating a culture of openness, companies can better support their workforce while maintaining compliance.
Balancing Hustle and Compliance
Despite the potential risks, Szamet believes it is possible to balance side hustles with workplace integrity. She emphasizes the importance of both balance and transparency.
A good approach would be for companies to establish clear guidelines that distinguish between personal and business use without resorting to excessive monitoring. Employees, in turn, should understand their rights and responsibilities, knowing when to use personal devices for side projects and when to communicate potential conflicts with their employer.
Cybersecurity 101: Protect Yourself While Working Remotely
Beyond company policies, there is also a cybersecurity aspect to consider. Using work devices for personal purposes can expose both employees and employers to threats such as phishing scams and data leaks.
Szamet offers some basic but essential tips for staying secure:
- Use strong, unique passwords for every login.
- Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.
- Avoid saving sensitive company data on personal drives or cloud accounts.
Even small mistakes, like using unsecured Wi-Fi or neglecting software updates, can leave individuals vulnerable. Staying vigilant is key to protecting both personal and professional information.
The Multi-Hyphenate’s Tech Playbook
For those juggling multiple roles, here is a quick guide from Szamet on how to navigate the digital workplace effectively:
Do:
– Use personal devices for side work whenever possible.
– Keep your 9-to-5 separate from your personal hustle.
– Be open about any outside work that could conflict with your current role.
Don’t:
– Use company time or software to run your business.
– Assume your work laptop is private—it’s not.
– Sync company files with your personal cloud accounts.
Own Your Hustle, But Protect Your Bag
In a time where having two jobs can mean two incomes, it also means double the stress, risk, and digital footprint. Szamet stresses that individuals should not be punished for trying to manage their lives in a challenging economy.
While it’s important to take initiative and pursue opportunities, it’s equally crucial to act responsibly. Every click, download, and upload can have far-reaching consequences. Whether you’re climbing the ladder, building a brand, or doing both, understanding the impact of your digital actions is essential.
