Understanding the Risks of Side Jobs: Not Always as Free as You Think

The Reality of Side Jobs in Japan

Side jobs, often perceived as a gateway to financial freedom and personal growth, are sometimes not as liberating as they seem. The notion that one can freely begin a side job is rooted in a common misunderstanding that can lead to serious repercussions such as disciplinary actions or even termination from one’s primary employment.

Government Initiatives vs. Company Policies

The Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare is actively promoting the concept of side jobs and multiple sources of income as part of its efforts to encourage diverse work styles. However, the reality for many employees is that their companies impose restrictions or outright bans on secondary employment.

Reports of individuals who started side jobs without their employer’s consent and subsequently faced disciplinary action serve as cautionary tales. The difference between being encouraged to take on a side job and being allowed to do so without explicit permission is significant. It’s crucial for employees to review their company’s regulations regarding side jobs and, if necessary, seek formal approval to protect their careers and reputations.

Upcoming Seminar on Side Job Regulations

To raise awareness about this critical topic, the Claire Human Resource Development Association, located in Chiyoda, Tokyo, will host a free seminar titled “Side Jobs are Not Always Free” on August 28, 2025. The seminar will feature Jun Ono, a specialized social insurance labor consultant with extensive experience in labor and harassment training, having led over 400 sessions across various sectors.

Seminar Details

- Date: August 28, 2025 (Thursday)
- Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
- Location: Claire Human Resource Development Association Headquarters, Kioicho Main Office Building, 6F, 3-12 Kioicho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
- Speaker: Jun Ono (Specialized Social Insurance Labor Consultant / Employment Clean Planning Specialist)

Key Discussion Points

This seminar aims to address following inquiries:

- What is the legal basis for companies banning side jobs?
- How to interpret clauses in employment regulations that restrict side jobs?
- What are the risks of starting a side job without permission and what disciplinary cases exist?
- Why are the government and the Ministry of Health and Welfare promoting side jobs?
- Essential checks to ensure a safe start to side jobs.

Profile of the Speaker

Jun Ono has been a leading voice in labor and harassment training new regulations since the Anti-Harassment Law came into effect. With a focus on practical applications of laws in the workplace, he has earned a reputation for his insightful and actionable teachings. He also oversees the Employment Clean Planner certification, which is a specialized online qualification focusing on harassment prevention and consultative support.

About the Employment Clean Planner Certification

This certification equips professionals with the skills necessary for a practical approach to handling workplace harassment, focusing on both prevention and responsive strategies. With just 20 hours of education, participants can learn impactful techniques applicable immediately in training settings. Over 650 individuals across various sectors, including corporations, local governments, and educational institutions, have attained this qualification, making a significant impact in their fields.

More details about the certification can be found at Employment Clean Planner Certification.

For Media Inquiries

For media personnel seeking interviews with Jun Ono or commentary on regulations and harassment issues, the Claire Human Resource Development Association is more than willing to accommodate requests tailored to specific articles or topics.