When choosing a job, flexibility is one of the top priorities—and you're not alone. More and more people are looking for flexible hours or remote work. A 2023 study by McKinsey found that over 58% of workers worldwide consider job and schedule flexibility the most important factor when choosing an employer. LinkedIn also reported that job ads mentioning “flexible” receive 2.1 times more applications than those that don’t. People want to manage their own time, avoid the traditional 9-to-5 routine, and have more control over their career paths. In this context, two work models are becoming increasingly popular: temporary jobs and freelancing (also known as gig workWhile they may seem similar, there are key differences between the two that could significantly impact your decision.

Temporary job: what does it mean?

A temporary job involves working for an employer for a determined period of time — from a few hours to several months. You can work in shifts, and in some cases you have the chance to become a permanent employee. You are legally employed, and the company or staffing agency handles all your employment documents, salary calculation, benefits, and payment of taxes to state institutions. 

Advantages:

• Greater stability: Fixed salary, paid regularly.
• Legal rights: You are protected by labor legislation — you have a guaranteed minimum wage, vacation days, sometimes even medical insurance or pension.
• Access to various industries: Retail, logistics, healthcare, education, public administration, etc.
• Professional support: You can contact a staffing agency, such as Smartemp, which can guide you step by step to the right temporary job for you. Thus, not only do you find opportunities more easily, but you also have all the administrative part (calculation, salaries, taxes) ensured.
  

Disadvantages:

• Limited flexibility: Although it's not a full-time permanent job, you still have a preset schedule.
• Capped earnings: The salary is set by the employer and you may receive bonuses.
  
• Less autonomy: You don't choose the projects or the working style. 

Freelancer in Gig Economy: what does it involve?

Gig economy The gig economy (named after the well-known “gigs” — live shows by pop or jazz bands — which imply a limited period contract, an engagement for one night) actually means offering clients the services they need, when they need them, for the time they need them. The first such services that appeared and spread successfully were transportation and food delivery (Uber, Bolt). Then came space rentals (such as Airbnb).

As a freelancer or worker in The Gig Economy you are an independent contractor. You take on short-term tasks: a delivery, an article to write, an hour of consulting, etc. You don’t have an employer — you are your own boss.

Advantages:

• Total freedom: You choose your clients, projects, rates, and schedule.
• Professional diversity: You work in multiple industries and gain new skills.
• Potentially higher earnings than in a temporary job: Without a cap, your earnings don’t have to match those of employees in the same role with the same experience. They depend on how much and how you work.
• Work from anywhere: You can work remotely, without transport or relocation costs.

Disadvantages:

• Lack of benefits: No paid leave, pension, or medical insurance, unless you provide them yourself.
• Unstable income: Sometimes you have more projects than you can handle, other times none.
• Fiscal responsibility: You must manage your own taxes and accounting, or do it with the help of an accountant you must pay.

Which job suits you?

Choose a temporary job if:

• You’re looking for security and a certain routine.
• You want to test several industries before committing full-time.
• You want benefits like paid vacation, pension, or medical insurance.
• You don’t want to manage taxes yourself.
• You need support to find the right job — working with a specialized agency like Smartemp can significantly ease the hiring process.

Choose freelancing (gig work) if:

• You value freedom and total autonomy.
• You’re willing to take financial risks for potentially higher earnings.
• You have good financial discipline and are organized.
• You’re results-oriented and enjoy varied collaborations.

Whether you choose a temporary job or freelancing in the Gig Economy, the key is to know yourself and your professional and personal needs. If you prioritize stability and predictability, choose temporary jobs. If you seek freedom, variety, and unlimited earnings, go for gig work. In the long run, these two forms may merge into a new work model: flexible work, combining legal rights with professional autonomy.

Regardless of your choice, remember you can always seek professional support — a staffing agency like Smartemp can guide your career, connect you with reliable employers, and support you every step of the way, from selection to job integration.

Sources:

Forbes - Temporary Staffing Versus Gig Work: Fundamental Differences. Forbes.

McKinsey & Company (2023). Independent Work: Choice, Necessity, and the Gig Economy.

Upwork (2023). Freelance Forward: 2023 Annual Report.

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