The gig economy is fantastic! It offers flexible scheduling, low upfront investments, and jobs that are fed directly to one’s mobile device. However there is a big difference in the levels of success amongst gig workers. Why is it that one Uber driver is able to provide a good living for his/her family, and the one is barely getting by? Many factors play into one’s outcome, but there are three keys to side-hustle success that will ensure gig workers make more money.
#1 — Be First
Offering a good product or service is essential; but being the first to flaunt it is a game changer. Doing so will result in an irreplaceable competitive advantage. It’s a simple concept of supply and demand. Being first means that 100% of the demand will be funneled to that individual and those earnings will be theirs to claim! As other competitors enter the arena, they will have the added benefit of extended time in the market. Extended time spent in the market means more brand recognition, customer loyalty and money-making opportunities.
Being first can require a bit of luck with timing, but it isn’t impossible. Someone has to be the first one! Be on the lookout for new opportunities for gig work. For example — Londr.
Londr is a new gig economy platform that connects those needing help with their laundry, with those willing to do the wash. They have the ability to service customers anywhere Washers are signed up.
Given the “newness” of this platform, many still have the ability to “be first” in their town, regardless of where they live. 100% of the gigs scheduled will be theirs to claim; and as Londr grows as a business, so will the business of that individual.
#2 — Play to Win
While the first key to success “Be First” requires a bit of serendipitous timing, “Playing to Win” is 100% in our control. Attitude and hard-work are free, and intentional.
Every gig can be just one gig if that is one’s mindset; but for those that have a can-do attitude and play to win, every gig is also an opportunity for a referral, a rave review, and a good tip. In pursuit of winning, consider the following:
- Quality Work. Above all else, do good work. Customers who create gig work are looking for help in some form. When they experience the relief sensation in having received that help, they will express their gratitude in many forms — including reviews. Most gig platforms provide a place for reviews which enable customers to be choosy. If gig workers want to be chosen, they do good work.
- Being Personable. Interactions had with customers may be minimal, but in all communication (whether it be in person or via an app), it is important that gig workers are pleasant and likeable. Londr encourages Washers to introduce themselves when they accept a job. “Hello Sarah. My name is Alex and I will be picking up your laundry today.” Studies show that using names can increase tips by 56%. Not only that, but Londr Customers have the ability to designate specific Washers as “Favorites.” Those selected will be given advanced notice about jobs created by that individual, and they will have the opportunity to accept or deny that work before it is shared with others.
- Tipping Guidelines. According to Forbes, “Thirty percent of adults in the United States are unaware that 15% to 20% is the general rule for tips. Plus, it’s not always easy to calculate percentages.” To help solve this problem, most gig platforms outline tipping amounts right in the app!
#3 — Create Opportunities
The more jobs one completes, the more one will earn. If that’s the case, then why aren’t gig workers out there promoting the service they offer to create more jobs? News flash: the most successful ones are!
Gig workers can wait for their specific gig platform to grow a presence in their region; or they can use their local network to create demand and more work for themselves.
Chances are high that a local gig worker is far more connected in their specific region than the gig platform feeding them jobs. In increasing local awareness, gig workers will earn more money.
In summary, to earn more, gig workers need to think of their gigs as an entrepreneurial endeavor rather than a side job.
Be first, play to win, and create opportunities. In doing so their upside earning potential will soar.