COVID-19 Effect on Workforce Migration Towards a Redefined Gig Economy

Stover, Nathaniel

COVID-19 Effect on Workforce Migration Towards a Redefined Gig Economy

Persistent URL

https://dspace.allegheny.edu/handle/10456/56822

Author(s)

Stover, Nathaniel

Date Issued

April 19, 2023

Abstract

Beginning March 15, 2020, the United States enacted a mandatory lockdown due to the concerns of the COVID-19 pandemic. This unprecedented event resulted in serious financial difficulties for many Americans, as well as many losing their jobs and finding themselves desperately searching for alternative income. This isolation and limited interaction aided in the growth of what is known as the gig economy. This economy consists of three occupational components: independent contracting, online intermediation, and paid tasks. Industries such as delivery services have seen significant growth during the lockdown while more traditional industries saw a migrational gap. This gig economy allowed for individuals without work or searching for alternative income an opportunity to earn it, while also aiding in realization and desire for at-home employment with flexible work hours. The pandemic aided in the growth of the gig economy due to increased participation and traditional worker migration. Having common ground on the desire for food service to consumers and the ability to work during the pandemic, probable assumption can be made that the courier industry contributed to this employment migration in the food service industry.

Major

Business

First Reader(s)

Onyeiwu, Stephen Z.