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Work in the gig economy

Hello,

You won't believe how many times I have tried to write this article on the gig economy. The more I read about work, automation, algorithms and AI, the more complex the topic becomes. I don't think I can do the topic justice in a few hundred words.

Work
Work has always been in a state of flux. Over the centuries work has shifted from brawn to brains. Technology, automation, algorithms and now, AI has, and will continue to replace mind-numbing work. That doesn't mean that there will be less work.

Technology, algorithms and AI are tools making life easier. Think about a tradesperson and their power tools: drills, chisels and nail guns. They are sophisticated labour saving devices increasing productivity and thus requiring less workers.

New jobs emerge where human skills are essential. Knowledge work yet to be invented, skilled, cognitive and caring work, often hands-on work will be in demand.

Tools
For my research and writing, I use a range of tools and software. DEVONthink Pro, a fuzzy logic database, to collect articles for research. Then writing tools - Hemingway Editor, Text Expander and Grammarly to help me with my writing. These are simple tools whereas in the past a typewriter, dictionary, and thesaurus would do. In my marketing work, I use other tools and software to make life easier too.

Experts
Expertise does count. To become an expert takes time through knowledge, practice, and learning. And for those of us over 50, not necessarily related to our original study.

Companies may not need an expert on a full-time basis as it may be non-core work. Only required when necessary. That's a way for the self-employed expert to get hired to solve problems for their clients, with the benefit of charging higher fees.

Gig Economy
The gig economy, such as Uber, is not so good for paid work. While it may offer the benefit of self-employment and flexibility, the jobs are low paid. Driving for Uber might be good if you are lonely and retired, or better than not working, provided you have the vehicle.

Airtasker is app providing another entry to the gig economy. Again low paid for less-skilled work. For say a skilled specialist or handy person it may provide a better opportunity to be highly paid and in demand. Provided the skill doesn't have too much competition.

Expert Knowledge
If you are at work, look for the opportunities to deepen your expert knowledge. Reframe the way you look at work and see what transitions you can make to build up your repertoire of expertise. You may need to make a few shifts, read more, network, go to conferences, learn new skills to build up post-employment opportunities.

For those who are retiring in the next few years or sooner, take stock of what you know and can do. If you want to keep working post-work, then it may pay to get some advice or help to identify what you might like to do.

In the meantime, I hope you have a Happy Christmas and New Year and I will be back in the new year to start looking at how to be a self-employed expert in your field.

cheers
Nigel Rawlins
Wisepreneurs

Working with Experts
As you know I now work with professional women who are experts in their field. They have knowledge and know-how from 20 plus years of working in their field. They know how to get things done, but often need help and support with the business and marketing side of things. It's taken me 20 years to to build the knowledge and insight to help them.

I also provide consulting and coaching and run workshops from time to time

Please consider linking up with me on Facebook or twitter
I post interesting articles and ideas that I come across daily
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