Seizing Jobs in the Gig Economy

Jobs in the gig economy are on the rise, bringing opportunities for job seekers. This sector makes up 36% of the workforce, an increase from 27% just six years ago, and further growth is expected. With advantages including flexibility and upskilling, job opportunities in the gig economy benefit both the economy and professionals as this type of employment becomes a prominent facet of the modern workforce.

What’s the Gig Deal?

The gig economy consists of temporary and independent workers. Different terms, including gig or contract work, often refer to the contingent workforce. Contingent work is now a mainstream way of working. While these jobs are temporary, the length and potential to become full-time varies by job opportunity. Additionally, contingent work spans across a variety of industries and employment levels.

The gig economy is growing, and with all its advantages, professionals can’t afford not to consider it during their job searches. Several industries revolutionized the way services are provided by giving workers more flexibility. For a long time, the traditional way of working was having a full-time job. With the gig economy's ongoing expansion, we’re living in a new normal.

The Growing Gig Economy

In the United States, job opportunities in the gig economy, classified by the Bureau of Labor Statistics as work in the temporary help services sector, saw significant growth since the pandemic began. Employment in this sector increased by 66% when comparing June 2023 to May 2020.

Gains are expected for the global gig economy in both 2023 and 2024. While there’s a projected 3% decrease in the contingent workforce size for 2023 in the U.S., there’s a projected 2% growth for this sector in 2024. It’s important to note that these predictions regularly change throughout the year due to evolving job market and economic conditions.

While some organizations may be hesitant to hire contingent workers in anticipation of an economic downturn, as shown by the decrease in temporary help services jobs in June 2023, the gig economy remains relevant and something to consider. As contingent work steadily grows, there are many advantages professionals gain from this way of working.

Capitalizing on Contingent Work

As a mainstream way of working, contingent work provides value for job seekers of all experience levels. It also allows professionals to gain skills and knowledge in a new field relevant to future work opportunities.

For those who have only considered traditional ways of working, don’t delay on exploring contingent work any further. Many individuals pursued these types of job opportunities during the COVID-19 pandemic to benefit from the flexibility, such as for caregiving or travel, and other reasons. With the various advantages this way of working provides, being uncomfortable with the gig economy concept should be left in the past. Stepping outside of comfort zones opens up a new realm of possibilities and this case isn’t any different.

Organizations of all sizes and industries that adopt contingent work into their existing teams streamline their hiring needs. A contingent workforce helps them remain agile throughout shifting economic conditions and evolving business needs.

Pursuing Contingent Work

During economic shifts, some job sectors cool while others heat up. Opportunities in the gig economy allow job seekers to capitalize on areas with increased job openings.

Job seekers are encouraged to look for employment opportunities that align with their goals and values. Ensuring the necessary items, such as resumes, references and work samples, are updated and accurate is vital before beginning a job search.

Partnering with a staffing agency is beneficial because hiring teams can efficiently match candidates with job openings that are a right fit for them based on skills, qualifications, goals and need. Connecting with recruiters gives job seekers broader access to job openings, rather than applying to different organizations one by one. Typically, staffing agencies, such as Rose International, have hundreds of clients, which results in a larger pool of job opportunities.

After connecting with a recruiter, creating a good impression is imperative. Hiring managers remember those who were diligent, reliable and conducted themselves in a professional manner. Network connections can be a great tool when searching for work; every job is an opportunity to grow that reach.

In the past few years, the world of work saw a reshuffle as many left jobs in search of opportunities that better aligned with their goals, creating a job seekers’ market. As the number of job openings slowly decreases and the total number of quits also falls, the “great reshuffle” diminishes. The job market pendulum may be swinging in favor of an employers’ market. With conditions continuing to evolve, job seekers in search of viable work options stand to gain a wealth of knowledge, skills and more.

Change is constant in the world of work. Professionals are encouraged to adapt and look for employment opportunities that lead them towards their desired level of success. Contingent work has proven to be a mainstream way of working, and those who take advantage of job opportunities in the gig economy set themselves apart.

🤔 Have you seen more job opportunities in 2023? Share your experiences below.

Click here to read past editions of Making It Happen where I share advice to help professionals survive and thrive in the world of work. I also share more advice and insight, watch here. Visit my website to learn more about me.

Was this blog helpful? Let me know by clicking the “like” button below.