Gig Work Skills: A Winning Formula for Young Professionals

A new report by TeamLease EdTech, a leader in Indian skill development, sheds light on the keys to success in the growing gig economy. The report, titled "Gig Economy Skills: Equipping Youth for Freelance and Flexible Work," surveyed over 800 employers across various industries.

The good news? Employers are optimistic about gig workers, with nearly 80% reporting that current freelancers meet or exceed expectations. However, technical skills reign supreme. Three-quarters of employers consider technical proficiency the most crucial factor, reflecting the increasing role of technology across industries.

Communication skills are also highly valued (by nearly 70% of employers), highlighting the importance of remote collaboration and client satisfaction. Interestingly, employers seem to favor a balance of experience and fresh perspectives, with a preference for gig workers with 1-5 years of experience.

Digital literacy is a must-have, with over 90% of employers emphasizing its importance. For skill development, on-the-job training and online courses are the preferred methods, indicating a need for flexible and practical learning opportunities.

The report also identifies key skill gaps for new gig workers: industry-specific knowledge (42.86%) and soft skills (28.57%). Employers seek a well-rounded package – technical expertise, domain knowledge, and strong soft skills for effective client interaction.

Looking ahead, the report predicts that AI and automation skills will be the most in-demand for gig workers in the next five years. This underscores the importance of continuous learning and upskilling to stay competitive.

"The gig economy isn't just the future of work, it's the present," says Shantanu Rooj, CEO of TeamLease EdTech. "The high employer satisfaction with gig workers highlights its potential. However, the emphasis on both technical and soft skills highlights the complexity of this work model. Continuous upskilling, especially in AI and automation, is crucial for success."

Jaideep Kewalramani, COO of TeamLease EdTech, adds, "Our study offers a roadmap for gig worker development. Employers favor on-the-job training and online courses, indicating a need for flexible learning. Additionally, there's a significant opportunity to bridge the gap in industry-specific knowledge. By focusing on targeted, industry-aligned programs, we can ensure gig workers are prepared for both current and future challenges."