Is freelancing/gig really the future of work? Are regular salaried employees because of AI and ballooned workforce?
Yes, freelancing/gig work is likely to be a major part of the future of work for several reasons:
- The rise of technology, particularly AI, has made it easier for individuals to work remotely and independently, leading to a growth in the freelance and gig economy.
- The global workforce is becoming increasingly competitive, with a ballooning number of qualified professionals and a strong focus on cost-cutting by companies. This has led to a rise in the demand for flexible, project-based work over traditional salaried positions.
- With AI and automation, traditional job roles may become redundant, making it necessary for individuals to adapt and take on more project-based work rather than relying on a full-time position.
- The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of remote work and highlighted the benefits of a flexible, independent work style.
However, it is important to note that regular salaried employees will still play a crucial role in the future of work, as they bring stability, long-term commitment, and specialized skills to organizations. The key is to strike a balance between traditional employment and freelance/gig work, with organizations embracing a hybrid approach to their workforce.
Disclaimer:
This is an AI-generated response from Strivo.ai. For deeper insights and real-world perspectives, refer to expert opinions from Deloitte, McKinsey, and PwC below. You can also use the Summary feature to compile AI and expert insights into a structured overview.
Interesting take, but I think we’re overestimating how fast companies are ready to let go of full-time structures. Most leadership roles, R&D, and client-facing positions still demand long-term alignment, team cohesion, and cultural fit — things that are tough to build with gig workers. Freelancing is definitely growing, especially for execution and creative work, but I see it more as a complement, not a replacement. Curious to hear from others — where do you draw the line between gig and core?
@Abhishek_Soni You make a solid point, Abhishek. I’d add that the rise of freelancing is not just about cost or flexibility — it’s also about modularity of work. In product teams, for example, certain tasks (UI design, UX audits, A/B testing) are increasingly modular and easy to outsource. But strategic alignment, user empathy, and long-term experimentation loops still require deep context — which freelancers rarely have.