Three Skills for Success in the Gig Economy

The gig economy is growing and provides opportunities for individuals interested in non-traditional and independent careers. One person who knows this well is Becky Catino. From 1986 to 2011, Becky Catino headed operations at an auto finance company in the Greater Cincinnati area. Today, Becky Catino serves as co-CEO and co-founder of GigSmart, a platform that connects companies with gig economy workers. 

Here are three skills independent workers need to succeed in the gig economy: 

1) Creativity and adaptability

With the exception of projects done for repeat clients, each project in a gig economy is typically done for a new client and will require a different approach, style, and thought process. Creativity and adaptability are crucial work skills in such an environment. 

2) Personal branding 

Gig economy workers require strong marketing skills to build their personal brands and land more clients. They should be socially confident enough to reach out and skillful enough to network widely. When an opportunity does arrive, they should be good at pitching themselves and their services.

3) Financial savvy

While independent workers are not on a payroll, they do have to file their taxes and budget for the future. Basic accounting and financial control skills will come in handy. They will also have to monitor their incomes and expenditures to know whether they are profitable. In some ways, independent workers operate like micro-entrepreneurs, and financially treating it like a business will help lead to long-term success.