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Gig Economy

In a gig economy, temporary, flexible jobs are commonplace and companies tend toward hiring independent contractors and freelancers instead of full-time employees. A gig economy undermines the traditional economy of full-time workers who rarely change positions and instead focus on a lifetime career.

Key takeaways:

  • The gig economy is based on flexible, temporary, or freelance jobs, often involving connecting with clients or customers through an online platform.
  • The gig economy can benefit workers, businesses, and consumers by making work more adaptable to the needs of the moment and demand for flexible lifestyles
  • At the same time, the gig economy can have downsides due to the erosion of traditional economic relationships between workers, businesses, and clients.

Background Information

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Defines the gig economy and summarizes some key factors and criticisms related to this concept.

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Explores the evolution of the gig economy with a look at current trends and future growth.

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Provides an accessible, comprehensive analysis of available data sources to answer critical questions about gig and non-traditional work.

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Uses Canadian statistics to summarize the motivations and challenges for individuals entering the gig economy, and provides financial wellness tips for working in this sector.

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Provides an in-depth exploration of key demographic indicators related to workers within the gig economy.

Gig Platforms

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Lists 20 of the most common platforms for workers in the gig economy.

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Compare the top gig economy platforms in Canada.

Resources for Workers

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Provides tips on achieving success as a rideshare driver.

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Offers a comprehensive guide to tax compliance for workers within the gig economy.

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Provides a range of guides on various aspects of pursuing work with different gig platforms.

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Summarizes pros, cons and general realities of working as a food delivery driver for a gig platform.

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Offers practical tips and advice that apply to workers in various gig economy roles.

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Details licensing requirements and other provisions that apply to rideshare drivers in British Columbia.

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Lists general considerations and practical strategies for prospective accommodation sharing hosts.

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Provides guidance on income and expense tracking, how to declare income, deductions and tax credits.

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Learn about the legal implications of being an independent contractor.

Company Reviews

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A popular source of company reviews based on information provided by workers. Use the search box to find gig platforms.

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A popular source of company reviews based on information provided by workers. Use the search box to find gig platforms.

Recommended Titles

Remote Media URL
Cover Image for The Gig Economy
Diane Mulcahy
Call Number
650.1 M95g
Publication Year
2017
Today, more than a third of Americans are working in the gig economy--mixing together short-term jobs, contract work, and freelance assignments. For those who've figured out the formula, life has never been better! The Gig Economy is your guide to this uncertain but ultimately rewarding world.
Remote Media URL
Cover Image for Gigged: The End of the Job and the Future of Work
Sarah Kessler
Call Number
331.0973 K42g
Publication Year
2018
One in three American workers is now a freelancer. This 'gig economy'--one that provides neither the guarantee of steady hours nor benefits--emerged out of the digital era and has revolutionized the way we do business. This book follows a wide range of individuals from across the country to provide a nuanced look at how the gig economy is playing out in real-time.
Remote Media URL
Cover Image for Reimagining Work
Robert Biederman
Call Number
658.301 B58r
Publication Year
2018
Reimagining Work is the business leader's guide to surviving--and thriving--in the new on-demand economy. This book shows you how to restructure and reconfigure your current strategy toward one that will help your business not just survive, but grow stronger in this new environment by offering what top talent demands.
Remote Media URL
Cover Image for The Sharing Economy
The Sharing Economy
Arun Sundararajan
Call Number
330.9 S95s
Publication Year
2016
Drawing on extensive research and numerous real-world examples--including Airbnb, Lyft, Uber, Etsy, TaskRabbit, France's BlaBlaCar, China's Didi Kuaidi, and India's Ola, the author explains the basics of crowd-based capitalism.