In the wake of the pandemic, there has been a shift in the priorities of hourly workers, with many now seeking longer-term relationships with businesses to provide stability in their work schedules. This change is reflected in the experiences of individuals like a California man who initially used one-off shifts to pay for travel to visit his elderly parents in Florida but now values the stability of a long-term employment engagement in Las Vegas. A recent survey of hourly workers found that 70% are looking for at least five shifts per week, highlighting a desire for predictability in their work schedules.
The trend toward seeking more stable work among hourly workers is driven by a desire to return to pre-pandemic levels of normalcy and predictability in their schedules. This shift aligns with a broader recognition that workers need stability in the face of constant change. Companies that employ hourly workers are also adjusting to this trend, with industries like hospitality and light industrial benefiting from offering workers the option of a stable work schedule. Longer-term relationships with employees can lead to more efficient staffing and eliminate the need for urgent training and excessive overtime shifts.
Technology plays a crucial role in helping hourly workers find longer-term commitments with businesses. Flexible work apps like Instawork use AI to match workers with businesses based on their skills, preferences, and reviews. Workers can create detailed profiles, opt-in to notifications about new opportunities, and utilize features that provide transparency into pay and potential earnings for different roles. By being proactive, learning about the business, and demonstrating commitment and reliability, workers can turn one-off shifts into long-term opportunities.
Hourly workers are advised to adapt their financial goals to the changing landscape of flexible work. Setting financial goals tied to specific outcomes, such as vacations or debt repayment, can help keep workers motivated as they accumulate shifts and savings. As the busy summer travel season approaches, it is important for workers to regularly reevaluate their goals and priorities to ensure they are aligned with longer-term engagements.
Ultimately, the current emphasis on stability in the workplace reflects a broader craving for routine and predictability in the gig economy. As hourly workers seek long-term engagements with businesses, they have the opportunity to build relationships that demonstrate their reliability and commitment. By proving themselves as valuable investments to businesses, hourly workers can secure the stability and routine they seek in their work schedules.
