One of the funniest things about working multiple gigs is how quickly people assume that every skill you have comes bundled together.
Nope.
That’s a different billable code.
I drive rideshare. That means my job is to get you from Point A to Point B safely and efficiently. If we have a great conversation along the way, fantastic. If I happen to know the history of the town we’re driving through, that’s just conversation.
The moment you want a guided historical tour?
That’s a different billable code.
If you ask me what restaurants are good, I’ll happily tell you where I’ve eaten or what people have recommended over the years. If you suddenly want me to spend the afternoon showing you every hidden gem in the county, planning an itinerary, and explaining the local history…
Different billable code.
The same thing happens in entertainment.
When I’m running karaoke, I’m there to keep the show moving, make sure people are having fun, balance the sound, keep the equipment working, and make sure nobody blows out a speaker or a microphone.
If you enjoy my personality while I’m doing it, great.
But if you suddenly decide you want me to be a motivational speaker, a stand-up comedian, a marriage counselor, a therapist, or the evening’s master philosopher…
That’s a different billable code.
People also underestimate what goes into sound work.
Most people think the person behind the mixer is just moving sliders around because they look cool.
In reality, you’re balancing microphones, preventing feedback, managing volume so people can still have a conversation, adjusting music so it sounds good without being painful, and constantly reading the room. If nobody notices what you’re doing, you’re probably doing your job well.
That’s not entertainment.
That’s engineering.
Different billable code.
The funny part is that having multiple skills sometimes creates the illusion that you’re giving away an entire consulting business for the price of one service.
“You know computers, right?”
“Yep.”
“Can you fix my printer?”
Different billable code.
“You know business.”
“Sure.”
“Can you help me write a contract?”
Different billable code.
“You’ve been driving around here forever.”
“Pretty much.”
“So you’ll spend the next three hours showing me everything worth seeing?”
Different billable code.
There’s nothing wrong with helping people when you can. I actually enjoy conversations, sharing experiences, and pointing someone in the right direction.
But there’s a difference between being friendly and providing a professional service.
Every profession has expertise that people don’t see until they need it. The challenge isn’t knowing how to do those things. The challenge is recognizing when you’ve crossed from a casual favor into a service that carries real value.
So the next time someone assumes all your skills come free with whatever they already hired you to do, just smile.
“Sure… but that’s a different billable code.”
As always, stay safe, stay profitable, and I’ll catch you in the next one. It’s a Gig Man’s Life indeed.