How To Find and Get Gig Work Fast

Updated July 17, 2023

A person with a shopping cart faces shelves of bread at a grocery store.

The gig economy has redefined traditional employment. Independent contractors who are part of the gig economy, such as freelancers, contractors, delivery drivers and others, are paid by the task or project and often work multiple temporary jobs at once. Understanding how to get gig work can help you find gigs effectively.

In this article, we describe what gig work is, how to get gig work fast and some suggestions for gigs you can pursue.

What is gig work?

Gig work is temporary or freelance work that a contractor performs on an on-demand basis or informally. There are many roles that are considered gig work, but some of the most common are rideshare and on-demand delivery. If you're searching for flexible working opportunities or a way to start or continue your career, then gig work can provide excellent opportunities.

How to find gig work fast

Here are five steps you can take to find reliable gig work, including examples of jobs:

1. Network with fellow gig contractors

Though many companies are now operating remotely, there's still work to be done. Reach out to contacts in your professional network about “meeting up for coffee” via video chat to ask for help discovering freelance jobs that you can complete virtually. This allows you to find out much more about your contacts that you may not have otherwise known. For example, your realtor may be searching for help posting sale signs for new listings in your area. Networking with existing contacts is priceless since the initial connection has already been made and they may already understand your strengths.

2. Join a dashing service or on-demand app

Since many people now work from home, ordering meals allows them to spend more time on their work, while waiting for their meals to arrive rather than having to venture out for food. Consider signing up as a delivery driver for apps such as Uber Eats, Postmates, DoorDash, Eat Street and Grub Hub.

Some of the delivery driver apps, such as Uber Eats, allow passengers as long as they don't get in the way of your delivery services. This is great for parents who can't find babysitters on a regular basis but are ready to return to work. These gig apps, along with on-demand apps are some of the most prevalent gig work you can find.

3. Join an on-demand app

Others may still cook at home but want to avoid going to the grocery store, so you can do their shopping as an employee of a service like Instacart. Grocery delivery is priceless for those who work long hours that truly have no time or energy to get to the grocery as often as needed. Cleanliness is important for businesses and individuals when you do food delivery. As a TaskRabbit, you get paid to clean companies' empty offices or individuals' homes. This is a great job if your schedule is flexible as you may work overnight.

Gig work is also beneficial if you already have a job and want to earn extra cash. Since the hours are flexible, you can decide when you're working the gig roles and when you focus on other responsibilities you have. Combining both to earn extra income, develop your skills and decide your own hours is an excellent way to improve your important career skills.

4. Update your resume and professional networking profile

Take this time to update your resume and online profile. Ensure it showcases your ability to simultaneously juggle multiple projects as an experienced gig contractor and examples of any freelance work that you've completed in the past. Always keep your social media accounts professional as many employers may search your social media profiles during their application process. Some employers also continue to monitor your social media accounts once you've been hired.

If you have a background in a certain field but have let those skills lapse as you pursued other experiences, sign up for an online course to regain your expertise. Refresher courses not only prepare you for future tasks they can also lead to confidence in the workplace. Don't forget to add any new certifications to your resume and professional networking profile.

5. Consider your transferable skills

Consider the range of skills that you draw on daily to complete your varied gigs and how you might be able to apply them to a different type of job. For example, if you've honed your communication and customer service skills as a rideshare driver or dog walker, explore opportunities where you can put these strengths to use, such as a remote representative for a call center. You may also apply for an in-person customer service job such as working the front desk of a gym or hotel.

6. Keep a routine

Keeping to a routine can help you stay motivated and productive. To maintain a fixed schedule (including a consistent wake-up time and breaks throughout the day), make a to-do list for the week and check accomplishments off as you go. Keep a calendar of virtual coffee calls you've scheduled with people in your network to stay updated on opportunities. Be sure to schedule a time to send follow-up emails to those you met with earlier in the week. Clean and organize your work area so that you can work efficiently.

As you pursue gig work, it's important to maintain a healthy balance between your personal and professional life, so be sure to also make time for meals, exercise, sleep, and family. It's important to stay positive and motivated amid uncertainty. Be persistent, check back in on available job opportunities and you can find a gig that you enjoy and fits your schedule well.

Please note that none of the companies mentioned in this article are affiliated with Indeed.