Freelance with Full-time Job - MBA Application

Question

Hi everyone, I have a query regarding freelance work. Basically, I am doing freelance work for a Europe-based client since September 2021. However, I am doing this along-with my full-time job at a leading MNC, which (as per the contract) does not allow me to pick anything additional to my FT job.

In this regard, wanted to get your perspective on whether I should include this experience (maybe just in a single line) in my CV or not? It might act as negative as it may sound unethical and raise question on my integrity. It might sound positive as well, as this adds to my entrepreneurial skill and also shows how hard-working I am. Any advice?

MBAGuide · Answer

BK_IN If you don't address your contractual obligations in your application (the likelihood of you doing so seems to be nil), your freelance work will only be taken as evidence of additional skills, versatility and entrepreneurial spirit. If you choose to include your freelance work, you should phrase it in a way that highlights your skills and commitment without explicitly pointing out conflicts with your full-time position. For example, you can highlight the entrepreneurial skills you have acquired, the challenges you have overcome, or the successes you have achieved through your freelance work. Take advantage of our free profile discussions and get candid advice on B School applications. Best wishes Aanchal Sahni (INSEAD alum, ex admissions interviewer) MBAGuideConsulting LinkedIn |WEBSITE: https://mbaguideconsulting.com/ | Message: +91 9971200927| email- mbaguideconsulting@gmail.com

TheMBAEdge · Answer

We have seen an uptick in applicants undertaking multiple roles/gigs prior to applying to business schools (including those being involved in their family businesses while having a full time job). Remember the following points:
- An MBA application resume is different from your recruitment/ job resume. You can include your side gig in your resume since it wont be circulated in the job market. 
- Since you are investing substantial time and efforts in this gig and adding to your existing skillsets and experiences, it will add immense value to your application
- Will showcase your proactiveness which is a key for admissions team as they look for people who will actively participate in various ECs on campus.
- Just make sure that there is no conflict of interest with the business operations of your existing firm as they can be potentially viewed negatively from an ethics and integrity point of view. Would suggest you avoid mentioning it in case there is a direct conflict of interest evident between your side gig and you main role.

Hope that answers your queries. All the best!

myEssayReview · Answer

Thank you for your query. I understand you have been engaging in freelance work while being employed full-time with your current company, despite it being against your contractual obligations. While your freelance role may indeed showcase additional skills and experiences you have gained, it is essential to prioritize honesty and adhere to the policies set forth by your current employer. Including this freelance role on your resume could potentially raise concerns or even lead to negative consequences if your company discovers your breach of contract.

It is generally advisable to respect the terms and conditions of your employment contract and focus solely on the experiences and skills acquired within the context of your full-time position.

I hope it helped,

For more questions, you may email me at [email protected]

It is generally advisable to respect the terms and conditions of your employment contract and focus solely on the experiences and skills acquired within the context of your full-time position.

I hope it helped,

myEssayReview · Answer

Thank you for your query. I understand you have been engaging in freelance work while being employed full-time with your current company, despite it being against your contractual obligations. While your freelance role may indeed showcase additional skills and experiences you have gained, it is essential to prioritize honesty and adhere to the policies set forth by your current employer. Including this freelance role on your resume could potentially raise concerns or even lead to negative consequences if your company discovers your breach of contract.

It is generally advisable to respect the terms and conditions of your employment contract and focus solely on the experiences and skills acquired within the context of your full-time position.

I hope it helped,

For more questions, you may email me at [email protected]

ExpertsGlobal · Answer

Hello  BK_IN ,

Thanks for sharing your query.

If your full-time employer does not allow you to pick up anything additional, then you should not lay too much emphasis on your freelance work, irrespective of whether it helps you showcase additional skills.

You may, however, mention it in a line in your CV (just in passing); do not focus on this either in your CV or the essays.

All the best!

Freelance with Full-time Job - MBA Application

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