| dc.description.abstract | This study aims to explore how Generation Z perceives the profession of affiliators
as a side hustle within the growing gig economy. The research background stems
from the increasing popularity of flexible technology-based jobs, particularly
among Generation Z, widely recognized as digital natives. This study employed a
qualitative descriptive approach through in-depth interviews with ten informants
from Generation Z who had prior experience as affiliators on digital platforms such
as Shopee Affiliate, TikTok Affiliate, and Tokopedia ByMe. The data collected were
analyzed using Cooper’s model, which consists of data reduction, data
presentation, and conclusion drawing. The findings reveal that the affiliator
profession is perceived as attractive due to its flexibility, potential for additional
income, and opportunities for creative self-expression. However, most participants
consider this work unsuitable as a primary career path because of unstable and
unpredictable earnings. The study concludes that affiliator activities are more often
pursued as side hustles aligned with the digital lifestyle of Generation Z. This
research is expected to contribute to the literature on the gig economy and serve as
a reference for industries, educational institutions, and governments in
understanding the career preferences of younger generations in the digital era. | en_US |