As excitement builds for the FIFA World Cup, set to unfold from mid-June to mid-July, Canadians are gearing up for not just thrilling soccer matches, but also a wave of temporary job prospects. With Toronto and Vancouver hosting several games, the tournament is expected to create a significant boost in gig work, allowing individuals to supplement their income amid rising living costs.
Temporary Jobs Abound
The grand scale of the World Cup necessitates a vast workforce, leading to a plethora of temporary roles across various sectors. Positions are opening up in security, food and beverage services, and event coordination, with many local businesses expanding their staff to cater to the influx of fans. Danny Murrell, founder and CEO of Harrison Staffing, highlights the opportunity for individuals who may not afford tickets to still engage in the event. “If someone cannot attend as a spectator, they can contribute by working and remain part of the excitement,” he remarked.
Harrison Staffing is particularly focused on staffing the Canada Soccer House fan engagement venue at Toronto’s Harbourfront Centre, primarily looking to fill bartender positions alongside a few servers. Murrell noted that the company began accepting applications in April, aiming to recruit between 100 and 150 staff members for the tournament. He has observed a steady stream of applicants, many of whom are young men eager to be involved in this high-profile occasion. “The energy around the event has certainly motivated many to seek out extra income during this busy season,” he added.
Economic Ripple Effects
World Cup organisers have underscored the potential economic windfall associated with the tournament, estimating an impressive $940 million in economic output for the Greater Toronto Area. The British Columbia government has also projected that the event will generate over $1 billion in tourism revenue in the five years following the games. As Murrell pointed out, around 30 to 40 per cent of applicants are seeking secondary employment, while many others view these roles as full-time opportunities, particularly students looking to supplement their income.
A recent survey conducted by Employment Hero involving 1,500 Canadians revealed that 14 per cent of respondents would consider temporary or gig work related to major events like the World Cup. Among those already employed, two-thirds indicated a willingness to take time off their primary jobs to participate, with 28 per cent open to taking unpaid leave and 39 per cent prepared to use paid vacation days.
The Gig Economy Takes Centre Stage
The rise in interest for gig work can be attributed not only to escalating living expenses but also to the accessibility afforded by digital platforms. Karyn Xiong, people business partner at Employment Hero Canada, noted that platforms like Upwork, DoorDash, and Uber have made it easier for individuals to earn additional income. “The barriers to entry have lowered significantly, allowing more people to find flexible work opportunities,” she explained.
Furthermore, the summer months in Canada are ripe with additional prospects for gig work, including large events and festivals such as the Calgary Stampede, Osheaga music festival in Montreal, and the Canadian National Exhibition in Toronto. Stacy Yanchuk Oleksy, CEO of Money Mentors, highlighted the increasing trend of individuals seeking side gigs to alleviate financial pressures. “Budgeting involves two main components: managing expenses and increasing income. While you can reduce costs to a degree, boosting income is often essential,” she said.
Navigating the New Employment Landscape
As gig work becomes more prevalent, employers may need to reconsider their employment contracts, especially those that impose strict no outside work clauses. Xiong emphasised the importance of flexibility, stating that employers must adapt to the reality of a workforce increasingly engaged in side gigs.
Tax implications also warrant attention, as individuals’ incomes may rise due to additional gig work. Yanchuk Oleksy cautioned that without proper tax planning, workers might face surprises during tax season. “It’s crucial to ensure that enough tax is withheld so there are no unexpected liabilities in the following year,” she advised.
Why it Matters
The FIFA World Cup is not merely a sporting event; it represents a unique intersection of culture and economy. With the surge in gig work opportunities, many Canadians are finding innovative ways to adapt to financial pressures while engaging in a global celebration. As communities rally around this historic tournament, the benefits extend beyond the pitch, fostering economic growth and providing new avenues for personal empowerment amidst challenging times.