Money

Gig Economy Jobs

Do not quit your 9–5 traditional job

The modern world is undergoing a paradigm shift in many aspects of our lives. How people are working is one example. We used to work in fixed jobs with fixed timing 9–5, fixed routine/protocols, and specific benefits/tasks that can generate an income for ourselves and our families.

Now, we have a new type of job called “gig jobs.” Rather than having the old-fashioned one fixed job under an employer, I can engage in several small tasks or ‘gigs’ for various people and organizations. It’s more like me being my own boss! Doordash is an example. I can choose which order to pick, what to do, and when to carry my own load. This is fascinating.

In the gig economy, I am fully emancipated to select when I want to work, what gigs, if at all any, I may take up, and how long these gigs take. For instance, today, I might be driving for a ride-hailing app, and then tomorrow, I will do freelance graphic design. Alternatively, I can do dog walking, run errands, or even rent out my house. The choices are countless, and it is up to me.

Sounds great, doesn’t it? No more being chained to the same boring desk job day in and day out. I can make my own timetable and do the kinds of jobs that interest me. Despite the thrill that comes with gig economy jobs, I could not put all of my eggs in their basket (gig economy jobs). Instead, I retained my old 9–5 job due to some major cons associated with the gig economy jobs, which raised my concerns.

The biggest problem is that with all these temporary gigs, employees are not offered benefits like health insurance or company retirement plans. This might be a tough decision to make on your own part.

There is no job security either. Once a gig ends, I have to find another one right away. Sometimes, there may be plenty of competition for gigs, leading to a downward trend in wages paid for them. It can be difficult because my next paycheck’s date remains unknown as well.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, so many gig workers suffered as their jobs dried up out of the blue! The risks involved in relying solely on gigs without any safety net were revealed here.

But I am not going to just complain about it. Traditional jobs don’t offer the level of freedom and flexibility seen in Gig jobs, which allows almost anyone who has any skills to earn something even if they cannot get regular employment.

The key lies in achieving a good balance between the two. We must make substantial changes so that gig workers have more rights, safeguards and benefits while still preserving the flexibility that makes this kind of work attractive at first instance.

We are not quite there yet but hopefully we will be able to develop a truly sustainable and fulfilling version of the gig economy jobs for workers rather than just being big companies exploiting our labor for their sole benefits. This new way of working can be made safe, secure as well as prosperous for all through careful planning and prompt action on our part.

Until then, do not quit your 9–5 traditional job; it is safer for you, at least for now.

Author’s Note

Thank you for reading my story. Here is some information about my background. 🙏Consider sharing and participating in the conversation if this content speaks to you. For any queries, collaborations, or comments, reach out to me at [email protected]. Thank you for supporting my work!