In this post-pandemic world, many Young people have resorted to embracing the gig economy or going freelance as opposed to being actively employed on a 9-5 basis. For many, especially content creators and influencers, this has worked out quite well, and for others, not so much. Some youth have also resorted to juggling their 9-5 with a side hustle or gig so as to boost their financial standing in society.
However, the gig economy is no joke because unlike traditional employees, gig workers do not receive HR support including promotions, skills training, career development or job security.
For those that don’t know, the gig economy is a free market system in which temporary positions are common and organizations hire independent workers for short-term commitments. The term “gig” is a slang word for a job that lasts a specified period of time.
People in the gig economy sometimes treat their gigs as their main source of income, and sometimes as a secondary one. Some of them are highly skilled and often refer to themselves as experts or consultants, and this mode of work is their choice, while some are unskilled and have no alternatives but to try out freelancing.
There are numerous benefits to gig work because it offers numerous benefits, from flexibility and independence to the opportunity to diversify income and grow professionally and personally. For those seeking a more dynamic and self-directed career path, the gig economy provides a compelling alternative to traditional employment; however, the setbacks can also be quite disastrous and draining for anybody.
Here are some skills to help you succeed in the gig economy.
Discipline – Unlike a traditional job where managers assign tasks and set deadlines, freelancers must be their own bosses and this comes with a lot of responsibility. Success in the gig economy relies on strong self-management skills, including:
- Time Management: Having multiple clients and projects can be challenging. Tools like Trello, Asana, or even a well-structured Google Calendar can help manage deadlines and workflow efficiently.
- Discipline & Focus: Working remotely offers freedom, but distractions are inevitable. Setting daily goals and maintaining a structured routine is key to staying productive, and that’s why discipline is very vital.
Networking & Personal Branding – In the gig economy, you are your own brand. Having a portfolio of your work, a clear personal brand, and the ability to market yourself is essential for attracting clients and succeeding in this economy as you are the company, the employer and the employee.
- Personal Branding: Your online presence should clearly communicate your expertise and your value proposition, you should also communicate why you stand out. Consider maintaining a LinkedIn profile, and sharing insights on platforms like Medium or Instagram.
- Networking: Whether through social media, online communities, or real-life meetups, building a network helps you stay connected to opportunities.
Negotiation & Client Services – Being able to negotiate rates, contracts, and deadlines is a vital part of freelancing and this is something you have to fully grasp if you are to break even. You need to ensure that you:
- Set Boundaries: It’s easy to say “yes” to every project when you’re starting out, but overcommitting can lead to trouble. Learn to set clear boundaries with clients regarding workload and communication expectations, in addition, it would be wise to focus on a specific niche out of which you don’t accept work.
- Negotiate Fair Pay: Understanding your worth and negotiating competitive rates is key. Don’t undersell yourself, and neither should you oversell yourself. When negotiating, it’s important to know the client’s budget before you agree to any figures.
The gig economy is a cruel pond to swim in, so, when you decide to take that step, make sure you have mastered the above skills for a chance to succeed. It’s also important to find your own path in this economy as opposed to copying others.
Chris is a Kenyan author and career mentor who specializes in helping young professionals and students find clarity and confidence in their career choices. With a background in career development. Chris combines practical career advice with motivational insights, guiding readers through Kenya's dynamic job market. Through his, articles, Chris inspires individuals to explore their strengths, set meaningful goals, and build the skills needed for a successful career journey. His work serves as a trusted resource for those ready to take charge of their professional futures.
