Gig Work Self-Efficacy and Its Effects on Flexibility, Career Adoptability, and Adoption in the Metaverse: A Moderated Mediation Model

This study aims to investigate the exciting world of metaverse gig work, exploring how gig work self-efficacy influences their adoption of gig work itself, along with two key factors: work flexibility and career adaptability. We also examine how these factors act as mediators, mediating the relationship between gig work self-efficacy and gig work adoption. Furthermore, this study explores the moderating impact of professional isolation, a feeling of disconnect from virtual colleagues, on this relationship. This study collected data from gig workers from Pakistan, both from freelance settings and established gig work firms. The data were collected from 316 participants by using a convenience sampling approach, our study findings supported our proposed relationships by indicating gig workers with high gig work self-efficacy are more likely to enjoy both the freedom of schedule (gig work flexibility) and the ability to explore different career paths (career adoptability). These benefits act as significant mediators, helping gig workers embrace gig work in the metaverse more readily. However, professional isolation threw a wrench in the works, and gig workers with high self-confidence may encounter challenges in capitalizing on the full potential of flexibility and adoptability within the gig economy. Results show that professional isolation in the online world surprisingly made it harder for gig workers to connect their belief in themselves, and self-efficacy, with important skills like flexibility and adoptability. This study provides insights into gig workers who have significant effects on organizations and the gig economy in the complex world of the metaverse.