Does the Gig Economy Increase Employee Salary Expectations? Examining Harris & Krueger's Findings

A 2015 article by Seth Harris and Alan Krueger, published in the 'Harvard Law and Policy Review' titled 'The Gig Economy and the Future of Employment and Labor Law,' does not explicitly address the question of whether gig workers have higher salary expectations. Instead, the authors emphasize the often precarious nature of gig work, highlighting the lack of steady income and benefits for many workers in this sector. This could potentially lead to a greater focus on compensation and benefits for gig workers, as they strive to ensure financial security in an unstable environment. Furthermore, the article points out that self-employment, a common characteristic of gig work, can lead to increased tax and insurance burdens for workers, potentially influencing their perception of salary and benefits. While the article provides a comprehensive analysis of the gig economy and its implications for labor law, it does not explicitly answer the question of whether gig workers have higher salary expectations. The authors' focus on the challenges faced by gig workers, particularly their financial instability, suggests a more nuanced perspective on their needs and priorities.