Specialists use online platforms to independently determine their work schedule, receive more orders and not worry about the customer not transferring money.
At the same time, platform employment has disadvantages – the income is unstable, there are no social guarantees, and it is almost impossible to influence working conditions. Let’s take a closer look at these pros and cons.
Flexible work schedule. Professionals working on online platforms can determine their own workload. Therefore, platform employment is attractive for students, pensioners, parents on maternity leave and those who have a permanent job. According to a HSE survey, respondents aged 25–34 most often named online platforms as a regular source of income; episodic – students.
Many orders. Platforms provide access to new labor markets – giving specialists the opportunity to work with clients from different regions, cities and countries. This is relevant for those who provide services remotely – for example, conducting psychological consultations or retouching photographs.
The platform acts as a guarantor. The online platform receives money from the customer and reserves it for the task, and when the performer completes it, transfers the fee to him. Thus, it protects both parties from fraud. Platform employees also resolve disputes that arise between performers and customers.
Unstable income. There are several reasons for instability: variability in demand, seasonality of orders, high competition and “overheating” of the market in some areas. Specialists cannot know in advance how much they will earn.
There are no social guarantees. Specialists on online platforms do not enter into employment contracts and, accordingly, do not receive the guarantees prescribed in the Labor Code. For example, they do not have voluntary medical and pension insurance and annual paid leave.
It is difficult to influence working conditions. Online platforms, as a rule, set their own pricing policies and operating conditions. Specialists cannot influence them globally and therefore are dissatisfied.
