How to Get a Gig Job

The gig economy has redefined traditional employment. The independent workers who are part of the gig economy, such as freelancers, contractors, drivers and others, are paid by the task or project and often work multiple temporary jobs at once. If you rely on opportunities like these, the spread and impact of COVID-19 may have put you in a position to require good, relevant gig work.

Here are four steps you can take to find reliable gig work, including examples of jobs you can consider.

How to find gig work

1. Network (from a distance)

Many companies able to operate remotely have already ditched the brick and mortar setups. But that doesn’t mean there’s no work to be done. In fact, while several sectors haves slowed down as a result of COVID-19, others (think supermarkets and delivery firms) are in overdrive.

Mine your personal and professional networks to see what companies and industries are in need of a helping hand. Set up numerous meetings (obviously, switching the coffee date for a Skype, Zoom or any other video chat interface is a no brainer), as you might be surprised to discover what freelance jobs are in high demand. In doing so, you can lessen the burden for a company that’s reaching breaking point, while making sure you don’t skip a single pay cheque.

2. Join an online marketplace or on-demand app

In the age of self-isolation, apps like Grab and Deliveroo will emerge as the (unofficial) fourth emergency service. Perhaps more importantly, the continued – if not increased – demand for quality food will keep many eateries afloat, and supply work for delivery drivers right across the UK.

As well as the above apps, there are Island-wide firms that deliver food on-demand from just about anywhere – not to mention your local takeaway and Domino’s Pizza. Supermarkets that struggle to restock shelves fast enough or fulfil online orders will cry out for temporary staff, too.

3. Update your profile and portfolio

The next few months will be a time of extraordinary disruption, but time nonetheless. Use it wisely – update your Resume, portfolio and any social media profiles used for work. Crucial to broadcast your availability for new work, it’ll also show off your skills. In the gig economy, juggling multiple projects is admired and expected, so letting a prospective employer know you’re talented and reliable will set you apart.

4. Consider your transferable skills

Now is not the time to pigeonhole yourself. Think about the range of skills you draw on daily to complete your varied jobs, and how you can apply them somewhere new. For example, if time spent as a rideshare driver honed your skills as a savvy communicator, explore opportunities where you can apply these strengths – like in customer service. There’ll be plenty of frontline companies in need of temporary staff, so think big.

5. Keep a routine

Going from fixed office hours to something more abstract is tough, but you can stay motivated and productive with a regular schedule. Reclaim this power with a set wake-up time, meticulous to-do list and timed breaks each day. Keep a calendar of virtual meetings, stay updated on opportunities and boost your focus with things like a Pomodoro Timer.

No one said the next few months will be easy. Far from it. Yet by taking the steps outlined above, you can unearth various roles in the gig economy, and turn crisis into opportunity. Do so, and you can create the work, income and peace of mind you need – at the time you need it most.