Whether you’re creating a side-hustle for extra money or building a full-time business, many people start by joining the Gig economy because it can be one of the fastest ways to start a business.
What is the Gig Economy?
Companies like Uber, Door Dash and Instacart are frequently the first that comes to mind when people think of gigs and the gig economy, but there are other options available.
As we saw the rise of services like the above run by apps where anyone could sign up to provide the service and get “gigs,” a new term emerged surrounding these types of workers who could pick up gigs when wanted to make extra money leading up to full-time money for some. Gig workers are those who create jobs out of picking up gigs, and as this grew in popularity, it became known as the Gig Economy.
According to PewResearch, 17% of Americans have participated in the Gig Economy as of 2021, and some sources cite that by 2027, over 50% of US workers will have participated in some way.
Why become a Gig Worker?
Joining into this economy as a worker has the benefit that you can pick up work (gigs) as needed. You can also do this as a side hustle for extra money while working a full-time job.
Some sources estimate that 29% of gig workers have full-time jobs and use this for extra income.
Current Challenge for Many Gig Workers
A current challenge with some of the more traditional gigs that include needing a car and requiring you to put miles on it is that as gas prices rise, the amount you make on your gigs decreases.
This has pushed some to look for virtual work gigs, and the good news is that if you have some basic computer skills, there are virtual gig options available.
As in the car-run gig options, you can choose to do this part-time or full-time and as your sole business or a side-hustle to your current job.
What Do You Need to Get Started with Virtual Gigs?
The main things you’ll need for working virtual gigs is a computer, phone, and high-speed internet connection. Of course, you’ll need skills for whatever services you want to provide, and as a service professional, you always need good communication skills because you’ll need to work with your customers to understand requirements and successfully deliver projects.
What are some possible gigs available without a car?
Helping individual business owners and small business manage their email.
Sending responses to support requests for businesses – this is usually done via email, although some companies have specific computer systems where. They will have your login and answer. This usually includes sending canned responses and not having to create or troubleshoot yourself.
Finding images for social media and searching social networks for items that fit the customers’ business model for them to share on social media.
Posting on social media.
These are all gigs that are frequently provided by Virtual Assistants.
What is a Virtual Assistant?
Virtual assistants provide virtual services like the ones described earlier. Some do one-off gigs, while most establish longer-term relationships with their clients providing these services ongoing anywhere from 1 – 40+ hours per week.
Kim Shivler is a Gallup Certified Clifton Strengths Coach, Communications Strategist, and Consultant. She helps individuals, businesses, and teams, achieve their goals, improve communication, increase sales, and deliver stellar customer service.
Kim Shivler is a Gallup Certified Clifton Strengths Coach, Communications Strategist, and Consultant. She helps individuals, businesses, and teams, achieve their goals, improve communication, increase sales, and deliver stellar customer service.