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 primary source of income. 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 gig workers can leverage online communities to increase their earnings.
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” sheds light on the financial challenges faced by gig workers. Despite the potential financial opportunities that gig work offers, many workers struggle to earn more than minimum wage. The research suggests that the key to improving their earnings lies in developing political skill, which enables workers to effectively navigate and utilize online communities.
Di Gangi and Howard focused their study on Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk) workers, a platform that connects freelancers with businesses in need of virtual tasks. Through their research, the professors have highlighted the importance of social skills, such as political skill and social capital, in enhancing gig workers’ financial well-being. While technical skills are crucial for productivity, social skills play a significant role in helping workers gather information, receive emotional support, and seize opportunities in the gig economy.
The professors’ previous research, supported by the Dora and Sanjay Singh Endowed Fund for Information Systems Research, has also emphasized the importance of building connections with fellow gig workers. By investing time in cultivating relationships within online communities, gig workers can learn about potential gigs, evaluate opportunities, and ultimately increase their earnings. This collaborative approach to networking and information-sharing can significantly impact a gig worker’s financial success.
Paul M. Di Gangi, a professor of information systems, and Jack L. Howard, a professor of management and human resources, have a longstanding partnership in researching workforce development in emerging economic markets. With a combined expertise in technology, human resources, and social skills, the professors offer valuable insights into how gig workers can thrive in the ever-evolving gig economy.
In conclusion, the research conducted by Di Gangi and Howard underscores the importance of social skills and community engagement in enhancing gig workers’ financial outcomes. By leveraging online communities, developing political skill, and building relationships with fellow gig workers, individuals in the gig economy can improve their earnings and overall financial well-being. This study serves as a valuable resource for gig workers looking to maximize their potential in this rapidly growing sector of the workforce.
