Why flexible work is the new standard in hourly jobs

Jarah Euston, who has worked as a filing clerk and fast-food server, has firsthand experience of the challenges many hourly workers face, from unpredictable schedules to financial insecurity. “For me, these experiences were stepping stones to university and careers in tech and finance. But for my coworkers and millions of other hourly workers across the US (and the world), these jobs are the primary source of income and advancement for their careers,” Euston, who is now Cofounder and CEO of WorkWhile, shares her perspective with the World Economic Forum.

Today, more than 80 million Americans – over half the US workforce – earn their living through hourly jobs. These workers make up the backbone of the US economy, playing critical roles in retail, hospitality, manufacturing, logistics and other industries. Yet, traditional work models continue to fall short in meeting their needs.

A new model is emerging – one built around flexibility, autonomy, and opportunity. Flexible work is changing that status quo. WorkWhile’s 2024 survey of 5,200 hourly workers, revealed a major shift:

Workers are increasingly choosing flexible work to balance their professional and personal lives, with surveyed workers earning an average of 51% of their income through flexible work platforms.

For businesses, embracing flexible work isn’t just good for workers, it’s good for their bottom lines. With the average cost per hire around $4,700 and total hiring expenses reaching three to four times the salary, hiring can become a costly revolving door when high turnover is a challenge.

Companies that offer flexible work programmes see higher worker satisfaction, retention, and productivity. When workers have more control over when and how they work, they show up more engaged, more committed and more effective. It’s a win-win.

The World Economic Forum’s Good Work Alliance is building towards a future of work that is more resilient, equitable, inclusive and human-centric. The alliance’s Good Work Framework holds businesses accountable across five key pillars, two of which align directly with the rise of flex work:

Workers shouldn’t need to sacrifice protection for autonomy. Flexible work platforms, including WorkWhile, help bridge the gap by offering competitive wages, quick pay to ease financial stress, and access to telehealth, along with other benefits. Yet, there’s still more to be done to ensure workers can work flexibly and still have access to healthcare, paid sick leave and workplace protections.

Many flexible work platforms, such as WorkWhile, offer upskilling opportunities for frontline workers to build their skills, support their own career advancement, and move into higher-paying roles. For example, WorkWhile offers a forklift training programme through its app, enabling workers to complete their credentials and unlock higher-paying forklift driver opportunities. When companies invest in training, they build a stronger, more resilient workforce.

Creating a more inclusive and adaptable economy means recognizing both the opportunities and challenges of flex work. For example, workers gain control over their schedules and career paths. And employers must balance flexibility with operational needs, navigate unpredictability, and ensure fair wages and career growth for non-traditional workers

The Good Work Framework offers a roadmap for businesses to incorporate flex work into their labour strategy, including:

Flex work is the future of work. Companies that embrace this shift and align with the principles of the Good Work framework won’t just adapt to change – they’ll define the future.

Ashley E., flex worker: A film producer in Los Angeles, Ashley turned to flex work during the Hollywood strikes. Working flexibly helped her cover bills and keep her schedule open for freelance opportunities.

“Flex work through WorkWhile allows me to tell people I’m available to work as a producer – and still pay my bills.”

Angela H., flex worker: After being bedridden for months due to old military injuries, retired US Army veteran, Angela, needed something flexible that could ease her back into daily life. Through events and stadium work in El Paso, Texas, she rediscovered her confidence, community and physical strength.

“If I hadn’t gotten flex work options, I know I still mentally would not be in a good place… Other than the military, I haven’t met a group I could connect with in such a short period of time. Flex work gave me another chance to serve.”

Josh Q., flex worker: A father of two in the San Fernando Valley, Josh juggles solar sales and a full-time delivery schedule through flex work platforms like WorkWhile. He credits the platform with helping him build real financial momentum for his family.

“Working flexibly through WorkWhile is something to do that puts more money in my family’s pocket. I can send my daughter to private school. I can own my home in California.”

Josh is now on track to hit an incredible savings goal – a downpayment for an AirBnB property in Southern California.

Braxten B., flex worker:

Braxten, a worker in the Chicago area, says WorkWhile has completely transformed her financial outlook. With quick pay and the ability to set her own schedule, she’s been able to build savings, pay down debt, and even plan for a future home.

“Flex work through WorkWhile has been a blessing to me and my family… It’s allowed me a financial freedom I never thought was possible.”