Traditional jobs still preferred despite gig economy rise – survey

TORONTO, CANADA — Despite the rise of the gig economy, traditional employment remains the most popular choice for both employers and job seekers, according to a survey by The Harris Poll for international staffing company Express Employment Professionals.
The poll found that 44% of employers worry about losing staff to independent contracting. However, most companies currently use contractors only when unable to fill permanent roles
Despite these concerns, 79% of companies plan to hire full-time T4 employees by year-end, compared to 26% for part-time and 22% for temporary roles.
“T4 workers” are employees of a company whose employer withholds income taxes, employment insurance, Canadian pension plan deductions, among others.
Job seekers also favor traditional employment, with 73% open to full-time versus just 38% to part-time and 25% to contract work.
“Traditional employment will always remain popular because it provides flexibility with security, allowing individuals to pursue their passions while enjoying stability,” said Bill Stoller, Express Employment International CEO.
The survey was conducted online in June 2023 among over 500 each of Canadian hiring managers and job seekers.
A different survey by Staffing Industry Analysts (SIA) revealed that revenue in the global gig economy totaled $3.8 trillion in 2022.