By PAGE Editor

Do you like to be your own boss? Are you interested in working and earning from home or managing your own schedule so that you can spend more time with your family or other interests?  If yes, you can consider being part of the gig economy.

What is a Gig Economy?

The term “Gig Economy” refers to freelancers, consultants, independent contractors, or any short-term contract workers.  Gig economy participants may consider their gigs as their primary source of income, while others treat it as an additional one.

According to Upwork, 57.3 million people freelance in the US, and it is estimated that by 2027, there will be 86.5 million freelancers. With that much competition, it is essential to stand out. Here are some tips to shine in this economy.

Create your profile well

Make sure that your profile is something that will attract employers at the same time, boost your credentials. Add pictures and videos to get more views as compared with a plain text profile. You can put different images such as your profile picture and the services you offer. Through this, you make an appealing profile and show that you are a legitimate gig worker that they can trust.

Feature reviews of your work

Another way to get potential employers to trust you and choose you over the others is by featuring good reviews about you. According to studies, people trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations. It will be helpful to create a summary of the good reviews you have received from previous clients and highlight it in your profile.

While at it, also make sure that your online presence is felt. Post regular updates on social media and your successful projects, strengths, and positive client feedback. 

Align with your purpose and values

Hold on to your purpose and values, and use these to develop your solid personal branding. This strategy can make you stand out because it will make you unique and show that you are much more than the paycheck. It can also help you to network with like-minded employers and clients with the same values as you. For example, if you support sustainability, you can showcase this in your profile. Showing that you have an understanding of eco-friendly businesses means you can connect more with eco-centric employers. 

Widen your horizon

Do not limit yourself with your current skills and abilities. Widen your horizon and learn new ones!  Research and check what skills are in demand these days and target to learn them. What’s good is that there are many easy ways to add knowledge- be it watching tutorials or enrolling in an online course.

In addition, think remotely and be flexible- check out different technologies and platforms that you can utilize to further your efficiency and effectiveness as a gig worker. Always be on the lookout for how to be better at what you do.

Practice good time management

You will need to balance a lot of things, even several gigs at the same time. With this, you need to practice good time management. Make sure to list all the things you need to do, plan your day well, and prioritize accordingly. Set up reminders as well for all your deadlines, meetings, calls, and events. It can also help to have a routine, as this can help boost your productivity and focus. Choose which time works best for you. Allot time for breaks and eating. Target a time to finish your tasks.

Give unbelievable service

Just like in any other work or industry, you will stand out if you provide not just the bare minimum but excellent customer service. This mindset applies to gig workers as well.

Go the extra mile for your clients. Be flexible so that you can provide for their needs. Submit their requirements ahead of time. Suggest ideas that can help them better their business. Your clients will surely appreciate these simple but impactful services. You can even merit a 5-star review by doing this, or better, gain repeat business and loyal clients.

Build relationships with your clients

Nurture your relationships with each client. After providing unbelievable service, make sure to continue nourishing what you have established with them. Check on them from time to time. Proactively ask them if they need any help from you. Share new learnings that can be beneficial for them. 

Connect with fellow gig workers

Expand your network and join communities of gig workers. Through this, you can get tips on improving yourself, getting referrals, and even partnering with other people for a gig. You may also learn their best practices and get advice on certain things. It helps to be part of a group of people who understands what you do and can help you succeed in this industry.

Conclusion

The gig economy is here to stay. It is expanding and may even outgrow the traditional workforce. To survive this environment, you need to stand out and differentiate yourself from the rest.

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