Winning Bizness Desk
Mumbai: A recent report highlights significant job opportunities for gig workers across various sectors during this festive season. Industries like retail, hotels, e-commerce, logistics, consumer goods, and banking are expected to offer a surge in employment opportunities. Gig workers, who typically work on temporary projects rather than as permanent employees, are in high demand. Many work as online delivery partners or in quick commerce roles, a growing trend in today's economy.
The report, released by human resource company NLB Services, estimates that approximately 10 lakh jobs may be available for gig workers during this festive season, which is expected to last until December. Retail, in particular, will see a boom, with demand for warehouse staff, inventory managers, logistics coordinators, and delivery drivers. The rise in consumer demand during the festive period is expected to boost hiring by 30% for gig delivery drivers alone. Much of this hiring will cater to peak demand in online deliveries.
About 70% of the jobs created will be seasonal, driven by the festive demand, but 30% of the roles are expected to be permanent, offering more stable employment opportunities. Additionally, women are set to play a larger role in gig work this season, making up around 35% of new hires. This trend is attributed to the growing preference for women in roles ranging from online jobs, brand promotions, beauty services, to food delivery and domestic help.
Who are gig workers
A gig worker is an individual who engages in short-term, temporary, or freelance work, often on a project or task basis, rather than holding a traditional full-time, permanent job. These workers are typically part of the "gig economy," where jobs are flexible and workers are hired for specific gigs or assignments. Gig workers can be found in various sectors such as ride-sharing (like Uber drivers), food delivery, freelance writing, graphic design, and more. Unlike permanent employees, gig workers usually do not receive benefits such as health insurance, pensions, or paid leave. They have the flexibility to choose when and where to work but lack job security and stability that comes with traditional employment.
