Once considered an unconventional employment model, hiring contingent workers is now mainstream and continues to grow. In fact, Upwork’s fourth annual study says that it’s growing three times faster than the traditional workforce in the United States and estimates that 57.3 million Americans are freelancing (an increase of nearly 30% from the previous year), making it a trillion dollar industry.
Still, many people continue to stick to antiquated assumptions when it comes to gig workers. They are holding on to the old perception that people work gigs because they have to, not because they want to. We’re here to bust five common myths about gig workers. After reading this post, you’ll have a true picture of the people who choose to be part of the gig economy.
MYTH 1 - GIG WORKERS ARE ONLY MILLENNIALS
A recent EY study says it’s a myth that millennials (ages 21 to 37) are the only ones to choose part-time, gig employment. While millennials do take the lead, it’s only by a nose. The study reports full-time gig workers are comprised of 38 percent millennials, 27 percent gen xers (ages 38 to 52) and 35 percent baby boomers (ages 53 to 72) and older, making it a healthy mix of generations.
MYTH 2 - GIG WORKERS CAN'T HOLD FULL TIME JOBS
Many people think that contingent workers work gigs because they can’t hold full time jobs, but that’s just not the case. According to Global Business Outlook, approximately 70% of gig workers, both those whose primary job is as a gig worker and those whose supplement their primary job with gig work, say they are contingent workers by choice. The reasons vary, but independence and flexibility rate at the top. Independent employment often leads to healthier and happier people because it allows contingent workers control over what they work on, as well as when and where they work.
The number of people who work independently by choice ranges from 70% to 83%. This statistics mean that those people who work in the gig economy do so because it’s a career choice and not because they can’t hold down a full time job. In fact, 50% of freelancers say they wouldn’t return to traditional work, no matter how much they’re paid.
MYTH 3 - GIG WORK DOESN'T PAY WELL
Gig work isn’t just good for bringing in some extra cash to buy something special or take a trip. According to Monster, gig workers can make as much as $7,000 a month. That’s enough to pay off student or car loans or put a down payment on a lease or house.
Some industries and jobs pay gig workers better than others so picking the right gig is important to getting paid top dollar. One thing that sticks out in Monster’s list of 15 side hustles that pay top dollar in the gig economy is this – the median pay rates fluctuate in the 15.00 to 20.00 range. That’s a whole lot more than minimum wage!
MYTH 4 - GIG WORK IS MOSTLY ONE-TIME SHIFTS/JOBS
Maybe once upon a time, but not so much anymore. The term, “gig,” was originally coined in the 1920s by jazz musicians as slang for the word "engagement.” Musicians were hired to perform “gigs” including live musical performances, recording sessions, or other musical appearances. Today, the term “gig” doesn’t only apply to musicians and other performers, but to any independent contractor or contingent worker who opts to work for a company in a non-employee capacity.
While gigs can refer to quick shift work, like working in hospitality, warehouses, or performing a specific personal service like walking a client’s dog, it can also take on a more regular, semi-permanent arrangement. For instance, a gig worker may offer their dog walking services to several clients, on a recurring basis over a span of years. It really depends on the arrangement between the gig employee and the client/company.
MYTH 5 - GIG WORKERS WORK ODD HOURS/DAYS OF THE WEEK
They can, if that’s what they want. That’s the beauty of gig work. The contingent worker is in charge of their own schedule and not at the mercy of a company. If unconventional hours and odd days of the week work best with a gigster’s personal schedule, then those are the gigs they’ll work. If not, no worries! There are plenty of gigs to pick from during regular hours.
CONCLUSION
What was once seen as a side hustle is the past, is now a trillion-dollar industry with millions of participants and gig options. GigWorx has a variety of jobs that will match your skills, interests, and availability with great local companies. Tired of the old way temporary staffing has always operated? New opportunities are sent right to your phone, helping you take control of your work life! Find out more.
