ACCOUNTING CAREERS IN THE GIG ECONOMY: OPPORTUNITIES, CHALLENGES, AND FUTURE PROSPECT

Abstract

The gig economy has transformed the international labour market, offering flexible work arrangements and project-based employment opportunities. While traditionally associated with creative and technology-driven fields, accounting is increasingly becoming a viable profession within the gig economy. This conceptual paper explores gig-based careers as a viable option for accounting graduates by addressing three main objectives: identifying the opportunities and challenges of gig-based work in the accounting field; examining key drivers such as technological advancements, cloud-based accounting tools, and the rising demand for flexible financial services; and evaluating the role of universities in preparing accounting graduates for self-employment through the integration of digital skills, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship training into the curriculum. This study adopts a conceptual research approach, grounded in an extensive review and synthesis of existing academic literature, industry reports, and policy documents related to the gig economy, accounting careers, digital transformation, and higher education. Through qualitative thematic analysis, the paper develops a structured perspective on the sustainability and viability of gig-based accounting work. Additionally, the paper highlights the challenges faced by gig accountants, including income uncertainty, lack of employee benefits, and the need for continuous skill development. A comparative analysis of traditional employment versus freelance accounting careers is provided to assess the sustainability of gig-based work. The findings emphasize that while the gig economy presents a promising alternative for accounting graduates, success in this sector requires strategic planning, professional certifications, and adaptability to evolving industry demands. This paper contributes to the growing discourse on non-traditional careers in accounting and provides directions for future research on the viability of gig work within the profession.