What to do with tons of free time?

At my work, I'm essentially on call in an office. It's the best way I can describe it. There are days where I am ridiculously busy, but they're few and far between. Most days I have 1-2 hours of work, and 5-6 hours of spare time with an occasional 10-15 minute interruption.

Sounds great, gets silly boring. And the pay is... okay.

I'm wondering if any of you thinkers out there can think of a profitable way to use this time. Please do not suggest taking on more at work and getting paid more, it's not an option, for various reasons. Let's just say this is how the job is designed to be, and my employer is beyond thrilled with the way things are going.

I have net access, and the ability to leave work for brief periods of time. I just can't figure out a way, some sort of small side business perhaps, to take advantage of this current position.

Any ideas?

Originally Posted by ItzPetey

At my work, I'm essentially on call in an office. It's the best way I can describe it. There are days where I am ridiculously busy, but they're few and far between. Most days I have 1-2 hours of work, and 5-6 hours of spare time with an occasional 10-15 minute interruption.

Sounds great, gets silly boring. And the pay is... okay.

I'm wondering if any of you thinkers out there can think of a profitable way to use this time. Please do not suggest taking on more at work and getting paid more, it's not an option, for various reasons. Let's just say this is how the job is designed to be, and my employer is beyond thrilled with the way things are going.

I have net access, and the ability to leave work for brief periods of time. I just can't figure out a way, some sort of small side business perhaps, to take advantage of this current position.

Any ideas?

Start up a business that is web-based - are you in the IT field? If so, website development might work.

Just becareful with the law on that.

I believe you can't really use the work time that you are getting paid for to go out and do another job during that time and get a 2nd pay.

Your initial employer would have some grounds to fire you or sue you

Originally Posted by rfdrfd

Just becareful with the law on that.

I believe you can't really use the work time that you are getting paid for to go out and do another job during that time and get a 2nd pay.

Your initial employer would have some grounds to fire you or sue you

Hmmm. Hadn't thought of legal ramifications (sp?). I wonder if it's a company policy or a fed/prov law? Google, here I come!

well I am pretty sure they can fire you "IF" they find out.


but if you are doing a good job at your work place. usually they wont mind.

trust me I know

they can find out anything you do on your computer at any time easily. But I do like the idea. Kind of screws the system - when income taxes have been screwing us for years.

Best to be honest and upfront. Integrity is very important as it's the only thing that is in your control.

Let them know that you have a business on the side and that you will check emails/voicemail intermittently throughout the day. Tell them that this will be in lieu of taking breaks and a long lunch. Since you've got so much time anyways, you can eat at your desk.

As long as you're getting your main job done...

LOL. Sooooooooooo confused.

Yes, your PM spam was unwanted.

OP, out of curiosity, what is your job? I would love to have that type of employment