We are now in the holiday season which calls for a sharp increase in the need for gig workers, driven by growing consumer demand in sectors like e-commerce, logistics and fast commerce. According to a Teamlease EdTech survey, the 2024 holiday season is expected to hire 1 million gig workers and 250,000 contract workers.

According to a report by Indeed, hiring is expected to increase by 20% this season compared to the previous year, with a notable increase in job opportunities in tier 2 and 3 cities.

But to thrive in this fast-paced environment, it’s not enough to be available: it requires a specific set of skills.

KEY DATA: INDEED REPORT

• Seasonal increase in hiring: The holiday season will see a 20% increase in gig work opportunities. The largest increase in job postings is for delivery managers (up 30%), followed by warehouse workers (up 25%) and logistics coordinators (up 20%).

• City specific request: Large metropolitan areas like Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore will see an increase in seasonal job postings of 18-20%, but smaller cities like Lucknow, Jaipur and Chandigarh are leading the growth at 22-25%. This trend is supported by the growth in disposable income and digital adoption in these regions.

• Industry Trends: E-commerce is expected to see a 35% increase in sales this season, leading the charge in gig recruiting. Logistics and fast trade are also growing, with job openings up 15% and 11% respectively.

HIGHER SKILLS FOR GIG WORKERS

According to Indeed, here’s a look at the essential skills gig workers need to master to make the most of these opportunities:

1. Digital literacy: Understanding and effectively using gig platforms is crucial. Workers must be proficient in navigation applications, order management and digital payment systems.

2. Time management: Peak times are often accompanied by price increases, so planning and managing changes to take advantage of these periods can significantly increase revenue.

3. Financial management: Using expense tracking apps helps workers manage costs related to vehicle maintenance and fuel, ensuring their bottom line income is maximized.

4. Communication skills: Clear communication is essential, especially for delivery and logistics roles, to ensure smooth interactions with customers and managers.

5. Adaptability: The ability to quickly learn and use new technologies and platforms is essential in the dynamic gig economy landscape.

INITIATIVES AND CHALLENGES

To meet the growing demand for digital skills, businesses are investing in training programs, while government initiatives focus on improving the digital literacy of economically disadvantaged communities.

However, challenges remain, such as language barriers and limited access to high-speed internet in some regions, highlighting the need for a more inclusive digital infrastructure.

For gig workers, staying up to date with technology tools and market dynamics is essential to thriving during this high-demand season.

The right skill set not only increases immediate income, but also paves the way for long-term opportunities as the gig economy continues to evolve.