It’s easier to anticipate how other industries will suffer through restrictions and lockdowns due to the spread of Covid-19, but let’s face it, the gig economy has never been tested like this before.
Globally, the outbreak of Coronavirus has highlighted the downside to working as an independent contractor – no work equals no pay. Uber and Lyft drivers have seen a massive plummet in requests for rides due to people being cautious, and it is having a direct impact on their earning potential.
However, considering the impact of Coronavirus on South Africa and M4Jam’s working model of gig work, three major upsides for our Jobbers have come to the fore. First, M4Jam Jobbers can work and earn from home. Many projects entail tasks which take either a few seconds or a few minutes to complete and can be done from any convenient location.
Secondly, our Jobbers have 24/7 access to information and education regarding Covid-19 through the M4Jam platform. All information is generated from credible sources. We are certainly not the Coronavirus experts, but we can offer guidance to our Jobbers on where to go in case they are exposed.
Lastly, while it is obvious that working remotely is highly suitable to an economy affected by unusual circumstances like Coronavirus, M4Jam together with our clients will continue to create sustainable ways of augmenting income in a country with extremely high unemployment statistics.
Stay informed and stay safe – Georgie Midgley CEO M4Jam