Does jobs without boundaries within the gig economy a paradox? Patro Udaya Sankar, Panda Tapaswini2, Das S.3,* 1Lecturer in Rayagada Autonomous College, Rayagada, India 2Guest Faculty in Model Degree College, Rayagada, India 3School of Management Studies, GIET University, Gunupur, India *Corresponding author: somu.das2110@gmail.com (ORCID ID: 0000-0003-4956-4352)
Online published on 15 July, 2024. Abstract The idea that individuals take ownership of their personal growth and, as a result, take control of improving their job competences has been a major tenet of proponents of what is known as the boundaryless professional view. In this provocative article, we discuss the barriers to and possible solutions for advancing boundaryless professions in the gig economy, which, although initially seeming to provide favourable circumstances for such occupations, is plagued by several variables that make these professions difficult. Therefore, it’s possible that professions without boundaries exist in the gig economy. Specifically, we hypothesise that gig workers’ employability is restricted by the acquisition of pertinent professional competences that are hindered by intra- and interorganizational career barriers. We then propose that, to reduce these limitations, we should think about eschewing employer-centric, conventional HRM methods and introducing new, network-based, self-organized HRM actions (in the form of collaborative communities of practice). Highlights • The article discusses the concept of boundaryless professionalism, which advocates for individuals taking responsibility for their work skills. • It suggests that gig workers face challenges in securing employment due to a lack of relevant professional skills, which is further complicated by career barriers within and across organizations • This approach could potentially promote boundaryless areas in the gig economy, allowing gig workers to thrive without limitations or restrictions. • The concept of people assuming responsibility for what they learn about themselves and subsequently taking charge of enhancing their work skills has been a fundamental principle advocated by supporters associated with the boundaryless professionalism perspective. • The present piece explores the obstacles and potential remedies for promoting boundaryless areas in the economy of gigs. Despite the first appearance of favourable conditions for such occupations, they face several challenges due to various factors. Top Keywords Personal growth, Ownership, Boundaryless, Flexibility, Competencies, Professions. Top |