The gig economy has become a significant part of the workforce in the United States, with over 50 million workers participating either as a side hustle or as their main source of income. However, many gig workers struggle to earn a decent wage, often falling below minimum wage standards. In 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., along with their colleagues, the researchers delve into how political savvy and community engagement in micro labor markets can help boost earnings and combat financial marginalization.
The study, titled “The influence of political skill and community capabilities on microtask worker hourly wage: A mixed-methods study of Mechanical Turk,” was published in the Journal of the Association for Information Systems. The researchers focused on Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk) workers, who use the platform to connect with businesses in need of virtual tasks. Through their research, Di Gangi and Howard discovered that while technical skills are essential for productivity, social skills such as political skill and social capital play a crucial role in helping gig workers navigate online communities and maximize their earning potential.
Thanks to support from the Dora and Sanjay Singh Endowed Fund for Information Systems Research, Di Gangi and Howard have been able to publish multiple papers on the impact of MTurk. Their findings emphasize the importance of building relationships with fellow gig workers to gain valuable information, emotional support, and access to better job opportunities. By investing time in cultivating these connections, gig workers can improve their financial well-being and increase their earnings.
Di Gangi, a professor of information systems, and Howard, a professor of management and human resources, have collaborated on five research publications focusing on workforce development in new economic markets. Their work highlights the significance of social skills in the gig economy and underscores the benefits of leveraging online communities to enhance financial success.
In conclusion, the study by Di Gangi and Howard sheds light on the potential for gig workers to improve their earnings through political skill and community engagement in micro labor markets. By recognizing the importance of social connections and investing in building relationships with fellow gig workers, individuals can enhance their financial well-being and counteract financial marginalization in the gig economy. This research provides valuable insights for gig workers looking to maximize their earning potential and thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of online labor markets.
