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TOKYO — An increasing number of individuals in Japan are engaging in additional jobs. According to a recent survey, the count of employees holding side jobs and the number of companies that permit such arrangements have reached their highest levels since the survey began in 2018.

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The research was conducted by Persol Research and Consulting Co. in August 2025. It revealed that 64.3% of 1,500 companies permit additional employment. Additionally, it discovered that 11% of approximately 38,000 full-time employees have a secondary job. For men in their 20s, the percentage increased significantly, rising from 8.8% in 2023 to 20.2% in 2025.

Previously, many individuals took on additional jobs to earn more income. This remains the primary motivation, although a smaller number of people now mention it. Increasingly, people express a desire to engage in activities they enjoy or to challenge themselves in new environments.

A case in point is Ryo Sato, 27, who serves as a recruiter at Fancl, a firm based in Yokohama. In addition, he offers career guidance to students seeking employment. He assists them in identifying their abilities and planning for their professional future. He carries out this work after his regular job and during his off days.

Sato mentions that his part-time job also benefits his primary position. He has gained better communication skills with students and now understands their true perspectives. His company is applying the knowledge he acquired to enhance its internship and employment programs.

Fancl began permitting additional jobs in 2023. The company claims that side jobs can aid employees’ development and benefit the organization as well. However, there are limits on the amount of work. Fancl restricts side jobs to 30 hours per month.

Businesses also anticipate that part-time roles will encourage employees to remain with the company. Numerous young professionals aim to establish a successful career, and some believe this is not achievable within their present organization. Organizations should focus on supporting employee development, rather than just offering higher salaries.

(By Yuko Shimada, Business News Department)

Vocabulary

side job: additional work you perform apart from your primary occupation

ability: the capacity to perform a task effectively

recruiter: an individual responsible for identifying and attracting potential candidates to join their organization

profession: the occupation you pursue throughout your life

full-time: performing the standard hours required for a position

internship: a brief period of practical training to gain insight into a profession

restrict: to prevent something from exceeding a particular amount