8 Platforms Needed to Survive the On-Demand Economy

In today’s on-demand economy, also called a gig economy, consumers want goods and services faster than ever. Professionals are transitioning to roles that flexible in both location and duration. More workers want part-time, contract jobs with comparable salaries, and on-demand positions are expected to outweigh traditional full-time employees by 2020. Gig economy platforms represent that shift.

This new economy is here long-term and will have a significant impact on the business world, including employment, marketing, and the production of goods. If you’re a freelancer or contractor looking for work, consider using one of the eight gig economy platforms below.

1. Etsy

This platform serves as a marketplace for creative types, those who like to knit scarves, play with clay or paint watercolors. Vintage and used goods are also sold. If you have a product or service you feel you can offer, why not sign up? More than 33 million online shoppers use Etsy, spending more than $3 billion in 2017. Setting up your first listing costs $0.20 and, when you sell something, the platform takes a small percentage. Etsy is a great example of how many people have shifted from selling and buying in stores to online.

2. Fiverr

Fiverr is a platform that has something for everyone. Are you bilingual? You can offer to translate documents. Do you have a knack for Photoshop? Create logos for entrepreneurs on a budget. Set up a profile and complete jobs on your own schedule. Your skills will instantly gain an audience of millions, with a new gig bought on the platform every four seconds.

3. Skype

Skype, a free video and text chat tool, is a great way to stay connected with friends. It’s also an ideal platform for conducting client meetings and business interviews. The platform comes equipped with voice-to-voice translation, allowing you to easily chat with someone who speaks another language. Removing language barriers can lead to huge gains and new opportunities in the business world.

4. Postmates

Postmates is a similar concept to Uber — except, instead of transporting people, you’re delivering goods from restaurants and stores. You can choose your hours, pick which jobs you want and have complete control over your career.

There are no fees to get started, so you take home 100% of what you earn, not a percentage. Pay-outs are free and weekly.

5. Rover

Do you love pets? With Rover, you can spend every day with four-legged friends while still earning money. Become a pet sitter or gain a reputation as the neighborhood dog walker.

The app gives you everything you need to offer and promote your services, including vet assistance and 24/7 support. Set your own schedule and prices. You can even set preferences on dog size, age, breeds and more.

6. Everhour

When you work as a freelance or contract worker, it’s essential to keep track of your time. Software like Everhour is more reliable than a clock and notepad. Use online time sheets to clock into projects and automatically track time. You can also set flexible rates to make billing and invoicing simple. The live dashboard allows you to track your progress in real-time.

7. Udemy

Do you possess a useful set of skills? Share what you know on Udemy, an e-learning platform. Create video lessons on British literature, business development, survival skills or makeup artistry — whatever your expertise. You can market your course directly through the platform and use the affiliate program to earn money. Creating an online course will take some planning. Plus, it’s recommended to have a good internet speed — between 3 and 15 Mbps.

8. Upwork

If you’re a freelancer, Upwork is a gig economy platform that makes it easy to connect with a variety of industries across the globe. Look for clients in need, pitch your ideas and grow your business.

Market yourself as an expert in the field, whether you’re a publicist, event planner or translator. You can set your own rates, take on projects at your discretion and have the potential to earn a lot of money.

Check Out These Gig Economy Platforms

The on-demand economy isn’t going anywhere. When consumers make a purchase, they expect delivery fast. Take advantage of the transitioning landscape by checking out gig economy platforms like Etsy, Postmates, Skype and Upwork. In return, workers benefit from flexible hours and higher earning potential.