Future of the Gig Economy Top 3

Share

Gig Economy

Or Open Talent Economy, or Contracting/Freelancing, or Temporary/Casual Staffing – there are many terms to describe the economic revolution that is changing the face of the modern-day workforce. For the past several years, the gig economy has been an ever-expanding ecosystem, attracting independents of all niches looking for opportunities. Millennials and Generation Z are particularly attracted to the freedom, independence and balance the gig economy can offer.   Technological innovations have had a direct impact on the increasing numbers of remote freelancers, as well as adapting the way they work. Advances in software and mobile apps mean freelancers can work on the move, from anywhere, free from their desks, offices and PC’s.  The benefits of working remotely can include not having to travel, ownership over schedules, flexibility and working from home.  An increase in platforms where freelancers can gain access to reliable, well paid and respected work, means the gig economy is an increasingly appealing prospect.  
Here are our predictions for the top 3 influences on gig economy in 2018

1.      Fortune 500 Freelancers

Most people think of freelancing as the realm of start-ups, creatives, and small businesses.  But there has been a shift as big businesses are starting to recognise the value of independent contractors. One of the most significant changes is the type of businesses that are beginning to leverage independent contractors. Major corporate entities and Fortune 500 players are beginning to see the benefits, as companies like Samsung turn to websites like Upwork to fill various roles. This uptake is likely to gain momentum next year.

2.      Blockchain Technology

As the gig economy continues to mature, it has been argued that traditional payment methods will become increasingly outdated. Basic payments for tasks, stipends, travel expenses and other monetary transfers need to become increasingly expedient and fluid; especially when dealing with freelancers across international borders. Blockchain, – or “The Invisible Technology That’s Changing the World,” has enabled a shift in the way clients and freelancers do business by adopting a cooperative model. The development of blockchain technology, cryptocurrency and Bitcoin will enable short-term work and financial compensation to flow in an unencumbered, unobstructed fashion.

“For the gig economy, the combination of blockchain transactions and smart contracts makes it possible to create freelancing and resource-sharing platforms where employers can find and hire employees, and compensate them without the need for a broker. Payments are made immediately in cryptocurrency without any delays. In turn this will increase the numbers of remote freelancers entering the gig economy.” Ben Dickson, The Next Web.

3.      Platforms, Apps and Tech, oh my!

Freelancers, crew, promo staff, temporary staff, casual staff – whichever label they are given, what they have in common is a dependence on Tech.  Arguably, the main tool needed to work in the gig economy is a smartphone, and the main skill set needed is the ability to navigate the many apps that have been designed for this particular market – Liveforce being one of them.
There are some great tools and platforms that no freelancer can live without, including some great job boards and recruitment platforms – and Liveforce is due to be one of them! Watch this space as we will be adding this feature next year, but until then the following are worth checking out:
Upwork  allows clients to interview, hire and work with freelancers and agencies through the company’s platform. The platform now includes a real-time chat platform aimed at reducing the time to find and hire freelancers. Elevate for the IT Contractor crowd, Contently is great for writers, whereas OnSite is an invite-only network for the digital gang.
Once you’ve landed a gig using one of the above platforms the next stage is to get organised. Trello and Slack are among our favourites for communicating between teams and keeping on top of tasks.  These work particularly well for Liveforce as we have staff scattered over Europe.  Hootsuite, is great for organising your social media, especially if you have multiple accounts that require regular posting.  This smart dashboard will save you time and help deliver your message to your audience better.  And almost any training and development can be via Udemy

Don’t Miss Out!

We will be keeping a close eye on new apps emerging in 2018 – we will also be expanding the Liveforce suite – sign up for a demo or our newsletter to make sure you don’t miss any opportunities.

Share