In today’s rapidly evolving economy, the gig economy has become a significant source of income for over 50 million workers in the United States. Whether as a side hustle or a full-time job, gig work offers financial opportunities to individuals looking to supplement their earnings. However, a recent study conducted by University of Alabama at Birmingham Collat School of Business professors Paul M. Di Gangi, Ph.D., and Jack L. Howard, Ph.D., sheds light on the challenges faced by gig workers, particularly in terms of earning potential.
Published in the Journal of the Association for Information Systems, the study titled “The influence of political skill and community capabilities on microtask worker hourly wage: A mixed-methods study of Mechanical Turk” explores how gig workers can leverage political savvy and community engagement to increase their earnings. The research reveals that many gig workers struggle to earn more than minimum wage, highlighting the need for strategies to enhance their financial well-being.
Di Gangi and Howard focused their research on Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk), a platform connecting freelancers with virtual tasks. Through their study, they found that political skill, which involves the ability to navigate social situations effectively, plays a crucial role in helping gig workers maximize their earnings. By engaging with online communities and building social connections, workers can access valuable information and emotional support that enable them to identify and seize lucrative gig opportunities.
The professors’ research underscores the importance of social skills, alongside technical expertise, in the gig economy. While technical skills are essential for productivity, social skills such as political skill and social capital enable gig workers to network effectively and enhance their financial prospects. By investing time in cultivating relationships with fellow gig workers, individuals can gain insights into potential gigs, evaluate opportunities, and ultimately increase their earnings.
Di Gangi, a professor of information systems, and Howard, a professor of management and human resources, have collaborated on multiple research projects focusing on the impact of gig work on financial well-being. Supported by the Dora and Sanjay Singh Endowed Fund for Information Systems Research, their work has been published in prestigious journals, emphasizing the significance of social skills in navigating the gig economy.
In conclusion, the study by Di Gangi and Howard highlights the potential for gig workers to enhance their earnings through political skill and community engagement. By leveraging social connections and building relationships within online communities, individuals can overcome financial marginalization and achieve greater financial success in the gig economy. As the landscape of work continues to evolve, investing in social skills and networking capabilities is essential for gig workers seeking to thrive in micro labor markets.
