One of the growing trends when it comes to making money is the so-called gig economy. The gig economy is the result of a rising technology that allows people to use the Internet and their computers to make money on their own terms to some degree. The gig economy is characterized by independent contractors and small jobs done one after another.
As a freelance writer, I am a major part of the gig economy. I take jobs as they come and get paid for that as I complete them. I work from home, set my own hours, and even set my own rates.
A new report from Thumbtack digs into the gig economy and what it means. The report breaks down different types of gigs and looks at the job satisfaction associated with different types objects in this growing segment of the job economy.
Skilled Professionals vs. Low-Skilled Professionals in the Gig Economy
According to the thumbtacks study, there are different marketplaces and platformsBased on whether or not someone is offering something skilled or something that requires less skill. Some of the skills-based platforms that Thumbtack looked at includes those that involve writing, graphic design, web development, and software development.
On the other hand, low skilled gigs include the kinds of things that you would find on commoditized platforms like Uber, Lyft, Taskrabbit, and Grubhub.
With both of these types of gigs, it is possible to use technology like computers and phones to find people willing to pay you for various tasks. However, when are you taking gigs on a commoditized platform, you are more likely to have someone else set your rate for you. When you develop the skills that allow you to do more advanced work, you are more likely to be able to set your own rate and make a little more money.
Another item that Thumbtack addressed in its report is the fact that jobs done by skilled professionals are a lot more likely to resist automation and outsourcing. On the other hand, on-demand gigs that require fewer skills might be subject to automation. Thumbtack cites the possibility of self-driving cars taking away the gigs currently available to ridesharing drivers for Uber and Lyft.
On top of that, the report found that skilled professionals are more likely to report higher job satisfaction. The study indicates that 84% of skilled professionals love what they do. On the other hand in the general working population, only 29% of Americans say they are engaged at work.
Skilled professionals also have better job opportunities overall, according to the survey. They are more likely to be able to do work independently and remotely. Many freelancers can take advantage of work done for those who live across the country or even on the other side of the world. If you are driving for a rideshare company, you are limited to your local area.
As you consider how you might fit into the gig economy, think about what skills and attributes you have. You might be surprised to discover that you can make a little extra money on the side by getting involved in the gig economy.
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