Platform-based low-skilled gig workers, such as food delivery drivers, lack fixed workspaces yet typically remain within specific areas to sustain their livelihoods. Current behavioral oriented research on algorithmic management suggests that gig workers passively accept the influence of algorithmically constructed environments on their work experiences. However, as independent workers, platform-based gig workers may proactively reshape their work experiences within these areas. Drawing on job crafting theory, our study posits that gig workers can enhance the meaning of their work through improvisational job crafting, thereby creating personalized workspaces. We employ a mixed-methods approach—initially qualitative research followed by quantitative research—to examine whether and how individuals engage in improvisational job crafting within algorithmically managed work, as well as its antecedents and outcomes. Specifically, we demonstrate that platform-based gig workers engage in improvisational job crafting driven by algorithmic time pressure and self-set goals. But algorithmic time pressure, as an external stimulus, inhibits gig workers from undertaking improvisational job crafting motivated by self-set goals. Improvisational job crafting yields positive effects (goal progress and self-efficacy) and negative consequences (emotional exhaustion) for gig workers, enabling them to create their own work experiences within the algorithmically managed environment, thereby crafting a personalized workspace and embedding themselves within the platform.
