The shaky economy and corporate belt-tightening have led to increased demand for gig workers and contractors, as employers seek to cut labor costs and maintain flexibility in staffing.
Listings for contract jobs have jumped 26% compared to the previous year, while full-time roles have only grown by 6%, according to LinkedIn's Future of Recruiting report.
Employers see hiring contingent workers as a cost-effective option that reduces tax obligations and benefits costs while providing flexibility in staffing up or down as needed.
The rise in gig workers and contractors is driven not only by budget constraints but also by shifting worker preferences and the desire for independence and flexibility.