Picking Up Gigs and the Best Apps for Gig Work

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“Workin’ 9 to 5, what a way to make a livin’”...but in today’s society, it’s no longer the only way to do so.

The gig economy provides unprecedented flexibility for workers to choose when, where, and how they work. It comes as no surprise that in recent years, more workers have availed of these benefits. 

Gig work offers countless opportunities for individuals who want to:

• Earn extra income
• Fill their free time or supplement their current work schedule
•  Immerse themselves in new opportunities and meet new people

In this blog, we’ll delve into what gig work entrails, where you can find gigs, and the best apps available for picking up shifts.

What is Gig Work?

In gig work, individuals perform short-term, freelance, or temporary work on a per-task or per-project basis. Online platforms or mobile apps typically facilitate this type of work.

The gig economy spans across various industries such as transportation, hospitality, delivery services, retail, pet care, and more. 

Gig workers, also known as independent contractors or freelancers, can choose when and where they work. This flexibility makes it an attractive opportunity for individuals who want to explore something other than full-time work.

What are the Benefits of Gig Work?

In the gig economy, individuals find unique benefits that traditional, full-time employment often lacks. Statista estimates that the number of U.S. freelancers will rise to 76.4 million in 2024. 

The main draws of gig work include:

Flexibility: One of the most significant advantages of gig work is the flexibility it provides. Gig workers can set their own schedules, choose how much they work, and select the gigs that best suit their preferences and lifestyle. This flexibility is particularly appealing to students, parents, retirees, and individuals with other commitments.

Variety of Opportunities: Gig work spans across various industries and job types. It offers a wide range of opportunities for individuals with diverse skills and backgrounds. 

Extra Income: Many freelancers use gig works as a means to earn supplemental income. Gig workers have the potential to increase their income based on their availability and willingness to work. In doing so, gig workers can save money for big goals, pay off bills, or use their earnings to put themselves through school.

Independence: Gig workers operate as independent contractors rather than traditional employees, giving them greater control over their work. They have the freedom to choose which gigs to accept, how to perform their tasks, and when to take time off. This independence can lead to a sense of empowerment and satisfaction in managing one's own career.

Accessibility: Individuals who face barriers to traditional employment can find accessible opportunities with gig work. Many gig opportunities require minimal education or work experience prerequisites, making it easier for individuals to enter the workforce and start earning income.

Geographical Flexibility: With the proliferation of digital platforms and mobile apps, individuals can access gig opportunities from virtually anywhere with an internet connection. Workers can find gigs as they travel or access gigs in areas with limited traditional job opportunities.

Best Gig Work Apps for Picking Up Shifts, Gigs, and Tasks

There are numerous platforms and mobile apps to find gig work near you and make extra money. Some popular apps to find flexible work include: 

Uber: Uber connects individuals in need of a ride to drivers in their area. With Uber, drivers can decide which days they drive and how many hours they spend driving each day.

Instacart: Instacart allows people to shop for groceries, fulfill orders, and deliver them directly to customers' homes.

Rover: Rover connects pet owners with caregivers who offer various services. Through Rover, caregivers can pet sit, walk dogs, complete drop-in visits, provide doggie daycare services and more. 

TaskRabbit: TaskRabbit is a service platform that enables “Taskers” to help with odd jobs and errands. Common tasks include furniture assembly, moving, yard work, deliveries and other services.

DoorDash: Through DoorDash, “Dashers” deliver orders from local restaurants, cafes, or convenience stores to a customer’s doorstep.

Shiftgig: Shiftgig is a temp job app that connects businesses with on-demand workers. Users can browse available shifts, apply for shifts that match their skills, and receive payment quickly upon completion of the shift.

Snagajob: Snagajob is a comprehensive job search platform that includes a feature for picking up shifts. Users can search for part-time, temporary, or seasonal opportunities in retail, hospitality, healthcare, and more.

Wonolo: Wonolo specializes in connecting businesses with on-demand workers for various tasks, including warehouse work, event staffing, delivery services, and administrative tasks. Users can pick up shifts near them on short notice and receive payment quickly through the app.

GigSmart: GigSmart offers a wide range of gig opportunities, including shifts in construction, hospitality, retail, and administrative roles. Users can browse available gigs, submit their qualifications, and find full-time job opportunities.

Amazon Flex: Amazon Flex allows individuals to use their own vehicles to deliver Amazon packages. Individuals use Amazon Flex to set their own schedule, find work that’s convenient for them, and earn extra cash on their own terms.

Why to Consider Gig Work

Gig work offers a flexible and dynamic alternative to traditional employment. It provides workers with autonomy over their work and allows individuals to pick up shifts based on their preferences. 

Whether you seek additional income, a temporary side hustle or a way to explore different industries, gig work offers plenty of opportunities. 

Through the power of technology, you can find and secure gigs with ease, all while enjoying the freedom to work on your own terms. So why wait? Start exploring the world of gig work today and unlock a new realm of possibilities for your career and lifestyle.