78% of Employers are Optimistic About Gig Workers: TeamLease EdTech Report

• 75.90% of employers identify technical skills as crucial for gig workers
• 68.67% stress the importance of communication skills
• Over 90% emphasize the need for digital proficiency
• On-the-job training (76.19%) and online courses (73.81%) are the top methods for skill enhancement

India, 19th July 2024: Celebrating World Youth Skills Day, TeamLease EdTech, a leader in learning and employability solutions in India, unveiled its in-depth report titled “Gig Economy Skills: Equipping Youth for Freelance and Flexible Work.” This report, based on data from 837 employers across various industries, delves into the critical skills and competencies necessary for thriving in the burgeoning gig economy.

The report reveals a positive outlook for gig workers, with 78.57% of employers stating that gig workers meet or exceed job expectations. Technical proficiency stands out as the most critical skill, with 75.90% of employers highlighting its importance, reflecting the growing reliance on technology in today’s job market. Close behind, 68.67% of respondents underline the need for strong communication skills, essential for remote collaboration and client management.

Employers show a clear preference for gig workers with 1-5 years of experience, as indicated by 67.86% of the respondents. This preference suggests a balance between fresh perspectives and practical experience. Furthermore, digital literacy is deemed indispensable, with over 90% of employers emphasizing its necessity in the digital-dominated gig economy.

When it comes to skill enhancement, on-the-job training (76.19%) and online courses (73.81%) are the preferred methods, providing practical and flexible learning opportunities. The report also identifies key skill gaps in new gig workers, notably industry-specific knowledge (42.86%) and soft skills (28.57%). Employers seek a blend of domain knowledge, technical expertise, and strong soft skills for effective client handling.

Looking ahead, the study highlights that AI and automation skills (53.57%) will be pivotal for gig workers over the next five years, followed by advanced technical skills (21.43%) and sustainability practices (14.29%).

Shantanu Rooj, Founder and CEO of TeamLease EdTech, commented on the report’s findings: “The gig economy is not just a glimpse into the future of work but a significant part of our present. With 78.57% of gig workers meeting or exceeding expectations, we see tremendous potential. The focus on both technical and soft skills underscores the intricate demands of this new work paradigm. Continuous upskilling, particularly in AI and automation, is not just beneficial—it’s essential.”

Jaideep Kewalramani, COO and Head of Employability Business, emphasized the need for ongoing skill development: “Our study provides a clear roadmap for gig worker development. The strong preference for on-the-job training and online courses reflects the demand for flexible, practical learning solutions. Addressing the 42.86% gap in industry-specific knowledge presents a significant opportunity. By targeting industry-aligned programs, we can ensure gig workers are not just meeting today’s demands but are well-prepared for future challenges.”

Download the full report: Gig Economy Skills: Equipping Youth for Freelance and Flexible Work