If you keep up with the modern economy or have looked for a job recently, you have probably heard the word “gig” thrown around hundreds of times.
But what exactly does this term mean, and how is it different from other similar terms?
Keep reading to learn the gig definition and how this term impacts modern businesses and freelancers.
By the end of the article, you will know all about the different types of gigs and how to use this term.
What Is a Gig?
At its core, a gig is simply a short-term job or project completed for a set fee.
This term can describe any short-term project-based work, from manual labor to IT consulting.
The gig economy has become very popular in recent years as more people are looking for work options available that fit their other commitments.
The gig model’s flexibility and versatility can be used in various industries and professions, from entertainment to technology.
As a result, more people are dependent on the gig model.
In short, gig workers are typically independent contractors who work on a project-by-project basis rather than as employees with ongoing commitments to a single company.
What Is the Synonym of Gig?
There are many gig synonyms.
For example, it is also called the platform economy, collaborative economy, or sharing economy.
What Does Gig Mean in Slang?
When used in slang, the gig definition refers to a short-term job or project.
People first used it to describe work for a musical group. If a band was performing at a bar, they had a “gig.”
How Do You Use the Word Gig?
You use the word “gig” as a noun.
For example, if you are looking for work, you might ask about gig jobs available in your area.
You can also use the term to describe any short-term project or job you are currently working on.
Why Do People Say Gig When Referring to Work?
People say “gig” when referring to work because of the nature of the work.
You would call something a gig if it is not long-term employment or you work on an as-needed basis.
Parties Involved in a Gig Transaction
Now that you are more familiar with gigs, you may wonder, what makes someone a gig worker?
Two primary parties are involved in a gig transaction: the worker and the employer.
Gig workers are typically independent contractors, and the gig is negotiated on a project-by-project basis.
In general, gig workers are professionals with specialized skills.
They may be freelancers, independent contractors, or consultants who work on a gig-by-gig basis to supplement their primary source of income.
The employer can be any number of different types of business owners.
The employer might also be a gig worker.
Alternatively, the employer could also be a massive company like Uber or Lyft that hires independent contractors.
The Difference Between Gigs in Entertainment and Gig Economy Gigs
Gigs in entertainment and gig economy gigs are pretty different.
Gig jobs in the gig economy tend to involve more specialized skills like tech consulting, graphic design, or marketing.
They are usually not related to the world of entertainment.
Gigs in entertainment tend to be more creative and less focused on delivering a specific product or service.
Often, gig workers in the entertainment industry are hired for their unique abilities, such as acting, singing, or playing an instrument.
So, how do gig economy gigs differ from typical entertainment gigs?
While the core gig transaction is the same, gig jobs in entertainment tend to be larger, more long-term projects.
For example, gig economy gigs might involve marketing a new product, whereas entertainment gig work may include the production of an entire album or film.
Types of Gig Economy Gigs
There are many different types of gig jobs.
Some examples of the gig economy are listed below.
All of them were heavily affected by the outcome of the AB5 bill.
What Is a Freelancing Gig?
A freelancing gig is one of the broadest types of gig work.
Freelancing gig work is typically project-based and involves a wide range of skills, such as graphic design, web development, or marketing.
People who pursue freelancing gigs often work for other freelancers.
For example, a freelance website builder may build a website for a freelance copywriter.
Freelancers can also work for larger companies, but this is less common.
What Is a Delivery Gig?
Delivery gigs are the most common type of gig work, which brought the basics of the gig economy to the spotlight.
Delivery gig work involves using a vehicle to transport goods from one location to another.
Standard delivery gig jobs include food delivery or package delivery.
These gig workers are typically independent contractors who set their schedules and provide their vehicles.
The most common delivery gig companies include Uber, Lyft, and Doordash.
Like delivery gig work, rideshare gig work involves transportation.
Unlike delivery gig work, rideshare gig jobs apply to transport passengers rather than packages or food.
You typically need to own a vehicle to work as a rideshare gig worker.
There are many different gig economy apps for rideshare gig workers, such as Uber or Lyft.
Rideshare gig work can be an excellent way to make extra money and drive for yourself, but it can also be a full-time gig if you drive enough hours.
What Is a Social Media Gig?
Social media gig work involves social media marketing or content creation.
This gig often consists in creating or editing blog posts, managing social media accounts, or managing website content.
Social media gig workers typically understand effective marketing strategies and rely on using social media to attract customers.
Common gig economy platforms for social media gig workers include Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.com.
If you’re interested in gig work, many gig economy jobs are available to suit your skills and needs.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, it’s easier than ever to find gig work that fits your schedule and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are you still confused about the above gig definition?
Here are some common questions about gig work.
What does gig mean on Craigslist?
In most cases, gig jobs listed on Craigslist are short-term freelance or contract work opportunities.
Depending on the posting, these jobs may range from small tasks (like writing an article) to full-time projects.
Is gig an informal word?
Yes, a gig is a slang term often used informally in conversation.
However, gig can also be used more formally, especially in the context of gig economy jobs and job-searching platforms.
Since the gig economy is so popular, you can use it in formal settings and still be understood.
Wrapping Up
Whether you are a gig worker or looking for gig jobs, there is no doubt that gig work is an integral part of the modern economy.
With its flexibility and versatility, gig work can be an excellent fit for anyone looking to enter or transition to a new career.
As gig work continues to grow, we can expect to see more gig jobs become available across all industries and professions.
You can work gigs to supplement your income or forge a new career.
Have you worked in the gig economy?
Please share your experience in the comments below.
