The gig economy is booming, and that’s good news for hotels. The gig economy is defined as a labour market characterized by the prevalence of short-term contracts or freelance work as opposed to permanent jobs. In a gig economy, temporary, flexible jobs are commonplace and companies tend toward hiring independent contractors and freelancers instead of full-time employees. A gig economy undermines the traditional economy of full-time workers who rarely change positions and instead focus on a lifetime career.

In less than a decade, the contractor workforce is expected to become the workforce majority. While the contractor workforce may not be a fit for all business models, hoteliers are undoubtedly benefiting. Timely solutions for staffing needs, seamless integration and measurable results are what hoteliers need and want.

Today’s contractor workforce represents diverse professional backgrounds and experiences allowing for that seamless integration that every hotel leader is seeking. Unfilled positions result in lost revenue. Hotels have goals, and ownership expects those goals to be met – no excuses.

Most contractors have 10+ years’ experience in the hospitality industry, and more than 64% users agree that contractors offer varied experience and unique perspective required for taskforce.

From the perspective of the freelancers/contractors, Lifestyle is key. Both freelancers/contractors and full-time professionals prioritize achieving the lifestyle that they want; however, freelancers/contractors are more likely to get it. More than half of all freelancers/contractors say no amount of money would convince them to take a traditional job.