Marketing and Networking Needs in the Gig Economy

In the professional world today, individuals must, to some degree, understand how to market themselves in order to be successful. This is especially true for professionals employed in the gig economy.In the professional world today, individuals must, to some degree, understand how to market themselves in order to be successful. This is especially true for professionals employed in the gig economy.

Over the course of the last few years, the gig economy has been on the rise. Professionals, both young and old, are continuing to seek new and flexible career opportunities. However, what many may not initially realise is that success in the gig economy relies on one key factor – your ability to market yourself and network with industry contacts.

Why Are Marketing and Networking So Important?

It’s no secret that networking is considered to be the most effective method for securing a new job. Having strong industry contacts can provide a wide variety of benefits:

• It can help provide information about potential client opportunities.
• It can help provide information on trends related to salaries, skills and industries where your skills may be of particular value.
• It can help introduce you to other professionals working in your sector and help you expand your reach and reputation.

The rules for successful networking and marketing have remained relatively simple: make an effort to stay in touch, invest time in helping contacts, and be generous in making introductions and sharing information. However, the keys to success are shifting.

Because the gig economy has evolved with innovations in digital technology, professionals today must understand that now, more than ever, successful networking and marketing habits are of critical importance.

Keys to Successful Marketing and Networking in the Gig Economy

What exactly does it take to practise successful networking and marketing while employed in the gig economy?

• Be aggressive. As independent professionals, it’s critical that you seek new ways to expand your network. From asking existing contacts to facilitate introductions to new connections, to cultivating an active social media following on platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter, you must spread the word and demonstrate your expertise in your field. You also want to show that you are always willing to take on new assignments.
• Be consistent. While networking can sometimes be a challenge because it’s an ongoing effort, it’s important that you continue to market yourself even when you are not looking for work. Gig economy workers must, by necessity, consistently focus their sights on the employment market. Don’t forget to check in by phone or email on a regular basis, or even schedule regular get-togethers with your professional contacts.

Because the gig economy by its nature causes professionals to change positions or assignments frequently and requires skills previously not deemed necessary, it’s important that all professionals take a proactive, thought-out approach to personal branding and networking.

Opportunities are many in the gig economy and, with the right professional contacts, you can place yourself in a position to seize them.