Zomato, Swiggy, and Uber Ramp Up Festive Gig Jobs Amid Skill Gaps

Primarily in e-commerce. Companies like Uber, Ola, Swiggy, and Zomato are leading this trend, reflecting the labor market shifts accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic that has made flexible work arrangements more attractive.

According to the "Gig Economy Skills" report, based on a survey of 837 employers across various sectors, a persistent skill gap remains among gig workers. Notably, 42.86% of employers reported a lack of industry-specific knowledge as the main shortcoming, indicating the need for specialized skills. Although gig workers are often technologically skilled, the absence of domain expertise can limit their effectiveness.

Additionally, 28.57% of employers pointed out deficiencies in soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are vital for gig workers juggling multiple clients and projects.

To address these skill gaps, the report highlights effective upskilling methods: on-the-job training (76.19%) and online courses (73.81%). These options allow gig workers to gain practical experience while enhancing their industry knowledge and soft skills, improving their employability and performance.

Shantanu Rooj, Founder and CEO of TeamLease EdTech, emphasized that the gig economy is transforming the employment landscape, offering flexibility that aligns with modern work preferences. However, as demand rises, particularly during peak seasons like the festive period, gig workers must enhance their industry-specific knowledge to stay competitive.

Jaideep Kewalramani, Head of Employability Business and COO at TeamLease Edtech, noted that while gig workers are generally tech-savvy, they often struggle with client interactions and adapting to the dynamic demands of multiple projects. Strengthening communication and problem-solving skills will be crucial for success in the gig economy, which requires a blend of technical proficiency, effective communication, time management, and adaptability.