- Guest Contributor
- June 4, 2021
Perhaps you actively chose gig work because you enjoy the flexibility of moving from one project to the next. This is certainly a benefit that the typical 9-to-5 job does not offer, but it also comes with a potential drawback. When you work at several short-term assignments rather than a consistent employer, you could miss the opportunity to make lasting workplace friendships. While you may need to put in more effort to make friends as a gig worker, the benefits you receive are well worth it. When you befriend other gig workers, you can benefit socially and financially.
Friendships Make Gig Work More Enjoyable
Having someone to share minor frustrations with who will understand or friends to sit with at lunch help to make any job more enjoyable. Work should not feel like drudgery, especially when you spend at least one-third of your day there.
Connecting with others, whether regular employees or gig workers, gives you something to look forward to when arriving at work each day. Going out of your way to be friendly to everyone is also the best way to ensure you feel included at the company, even if you are only going to be there a short time.
Fellow Gig Workers Can Help You Find Future Assignments
Networking is still one of the most effective ways to find work. This is true for people who hold traditional positions and those who prefer to freelance. In fact, having access to job leads is even more important for gig workers who move from one assignment to the next.
Your fellow gig workers may have information about a company they previously worked for or have heard of something coming up that may interest both of you. Either way, befriending those you work with at each assignment can pay off in the long run. Connecting via social media or just swapping phone numbers or email addresses can lead to new opportunities. Just be sure to return the favor if you get the chance.
Learn from Each Other How to Be More Effective and Efficient
Gig workers need to prove their worth every day since a few days of low productivity could mean the end of an assignment. By befriending others on assignment at the same company, you can give each other tips on how to do the best job possible. The people working in the same role as you will have the best insight, especially when they have worked in the position longer than you have. Seasoned gig workers can also teach you how to have a better work-life balance.
By remaining friendly, professional, and approaching every gig as an opportunity to learn and grow, you may find yourself with dozens of new friends within the year. A person can never have too many friends, and you will have special memories with each one.
About the Author: Lisa Kroulik has worked as a freelance content marketing writer for 10 years. She loves the work and the lifestyle it affords. Learn more about Lisa’s work and availability through Writer Access.
