A gig worker is someone who works on a non-standard basis, outside of the traditional employer-employee relationship. This type of work can include freelancing, temp agency work, self-employment, and subcontracted work. It can also refer to the tax status or legal classification of workers, with gig workers being classified as independent contractors rather than employees. Additionally, some define gig work based on the nature of the work itself, such as scheduling, flexibility, or lack of direct oversight.

 

A gig economy refers to a labor market that heavily relies on temporary and part-time positions filled by independent contractors and freelancers instead of permanent full-time employees. In this type of economy, gig workers have the benefits of flexibility and independence, but often lack job security. Employers in a gig economy tend to save money by not providing benefits such as health coverage and paid vacation time. However, some employers do provide benefits to gig workers, but outsource the management of these benefits and other tasks to external agencies. The gig economy is often associated with the rise of online platforms that connect gig workers with clients or customers. It is a rapidly changing field with diverse approach to understand and define it.

 

The gig economy is often associated with the rise of online platforms that connect gig workers with clients or customers. This type of economy can benefit workers, businesses, and consumers by making work more adaptable to the needs of the moment and the demand for flexible lifestyles. However, it also has downsides such as the erosion of traditional economic relationships between workers, businesses, and clients.

 

The gig economy is a diverse and rapidly changing field, and it is important to understand the different approaches to defining and understanding gig work in order to gain a comprehensive understanding of the gig workforce. Surveys commonly ask about work arrangements, but each definition offers important insights into the gig economy.