Changing Employment in the Sharing Economy: The Case of Airbnb

Authors: Turnšek, M. and Ladkin, A.

Journal: Javnost

Volume: 24

Pages: S82-S99

ISSN: 1318-3222

DOI: 10.1080/13183222.2017.1411570

Abstract:

The paper explores how new digital business models of the sharing economy are challenging the nature of employment. This discussion is set within the context of the tourist accommodation sector, specifically examining the case of Airbnb. Arguably, a significant change in working practices is occurring because of the rise of the so-called sharing economy. We present the debate on whether this is representative of “sharing” in such an economy, and argue that in the case of Airbnb the term “platform economy” is a more valid description of the phenomenon. We postulate that the way in which Airbnb specifically challenges traditional employment relationships is through three processes that have existed prior to the rise of the platform economy business models: free or minimally payed digital labour and related redefinitions of work; consumers’ commentaries as the main elements of managerial attempts at controlling the quality of service work; and social media use and accompanying commodification having an increasing role in blurring of life and work boundaries.

Source: Scopus