Many entrepreneurs launch a start up while being employed. This arrangement offers them the flexibility to earn a salary while focusing on their venture.
While this situation is ideal, it’s difficult to manage. It requires
a very delicate balancing act.

Rule #1: Does your work agreement allow you to run a business?

Most employees sign employment agreements when they start working.
These agreements can be as simple as confidentiality or non-compete
agreements, or they can be complex, full-blown employment agreements
with multiple restrictions.

Rule #2: Do your job during work hours and start up work after office
hours.

Do your job – and only your job – during normal business hours. Make
sure that your work output and quality remain good.
Run your start up outside of regular business hours. It’s difficult,
but many entrepreneurs have done it.

For a number of reasons, don’t be tempted to do start up work during
business hours. Obviously, there are ethical reasons. Your employer
is paying for a full day of work and you should give them that.

What happens if you must handle an urgent start up-related task during
the work day? Handle it during your break or take a long lunch. Don’t
make a habit of it, though.

Rule #3: Don’t take clients away from your employer.

If your start up competes directly with your employer, consider
resigning. It’s the smart thing to do. Most employees have to sign
non-compete agreements, anyway.

Taking business from your employer definitely puts you at odds with
your employer. This activity could also have legal consequences.
Employers will not hesitate to take legal action against employees
who are taking away clients.

Rule #4: Don’t use your employer’s office.

This rule is simple. Run your business out of your home, a rented
space, or your local coffee shop. Don’t run your business from your
work office. That is a surefire way to lose your job.

Rule #5: Don’t use your employer’s equipment.

Much like the previous rule, don’t use your employer’s equipment. Buy
your own office supplies, computers, software, etc. Getting caught
using your employer’s equipment is also a surefire way to lose your
job.

Rule #6: Keep your business to yourself.

Entrepreneurs tend to tell anyone and everyone that they are running
a business. They often boast about this endeavor to certain
colleagues. Don’t do this, as it can backfire.

Boasting can often attract negative attention. Colleagues may become
jealous of you. Supervisors may be unsure of your performance or
your loyalty to the company. It never ends well.

Rule #7: Don’t linger. Leave as soon as you can

If you are in growth mode, your start up may reach a point where it
needs your full attention. You will not be able to hold a job and run
the company.

At this point, don’t linger. Leave as soon as you are ready to quit
and work in your company full time. This approach is fair to both you
and your employer.