Are there many people that run their own business in their spare time?

[NickK]

Just wanted to see if there are people that run their own business on the side of their main 'pay the mortgage' work (and perhaps family too).

A friend's dad at school, many moons ago, used to make flow monitor/testers for hospital equipment for example.

I understand it's considerable additional work but do you do it for additional money or because you find it's interesting (field or the experience of running the business)?

Have you found it detrimental when changing main jobs? Or do you find employers see this as a bonus?

In my next job, I'm considering starting an internet based business on the side.

 

[NickK]

Just what I was going to say. Reminds me of the simpsons episode, where homer tries this.

The main job does provide enough (when I have one!) but why not run one on the side?

 

[NickK]

No reason, it's just usually a good plan to have an idea that's a bit better/more specific than an "internet based business" .

That's a given, I was looking for if people did it out of the fun/reward of running their own business (although it may not pay their wage initially) or if they did it purely to add to their income even if their current income was enough.

 

[NickK]

OP: What are you thinking of doing, specifically?

B2B: Product Management consultancy and market analysis. Aligns with the day job.

B2C: iPhone apps along with some possible hardware for various ideas.