Competencies, work-related interests and person-job fit in on-demand gig platform work for physical services

Purpose Workers who provide on-demand physical services, work exclusively for platform companies, and can be categorized as low-wage service workers reflect a new approach to matching supply and demand for paid labor. Previous studies have associated them with precarious workers, whereas other research shows that even low-wage platform work can be high-quality for people who value autonomy. Therefore, the question arises: what makes individuals well-suited to platform work and thereby facilitates person–job fit (P–JF)? This study aims to answer this question by examining individuals' competencies and interests that match job requirements. Design/methodology/approach The authors surveyed 280 platform workers offering on-demand services (taxi drivers, food deliverers and couriers) working in Poland. Linear regression, ordinary least squares (OLS) and Cronbach's alpha were used in the statistical analyses. Findings The results indicate that interpersonal skills, adaptability and creative thinking have the greatest influence on demands-abilities fit. Social needs, access to high-quality tools and regular feedback have the strongest impact on needs-supplies fit. A respondent's age, gender and education level impact the relationship between interests and needs-supplies fit, while education level also influences the relationship between competencies and demands-abilities fit. Originality/value This study extends the P–JF theory in terms of platform work. Examining employee attributes that lead to P–JF increases the knowledge needed for effective staffing processes in platform work organizations. Given that P–JF results in better career adaptation, this study also provides employees with guidelines for their choices regarding undertaking platform work vs. other types of work.