The Career Development of Food Delivery Riders in China: A Qualitative Investigation

Background: With the rise of the gig economy, platform work has has grown significantly throughout the world. As one of the most dynamic platform workers in China, food delivery riders are an underrepresented group in terms of securing decent work. Building on the Psychology of Working Theory(PWT), the current study aimed to explore how contextual and individual factorsinfluenced the career development of food delivery riders in China. This study also examined their attitudes towards platform work and their career aspirations. Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews with 12 participants aged 18-45 and utilized Consensual Qualitative Research (CQR) approach to conduct data analysis. Results: The results revealed that economic constraints, inadequate education, and limited social capital were the main vocational barriers for these riders. Their coping resources included social support, critical consciousness, proactive personality, and self-leadership. Although food delivery work allowed them to earn a living, it featured long working hours, poor working conditions, limited benefits, etc. As such, they experienced job dissatisfaction, occupational fatigue, and turnover intentions. Regarding future goals, our participants mentioned finding a more decent job, learning new skills, and starting a business. Conclusion: Overall, this study marks the first known application of PWT to understand how food delivery riders navigate the new world of work in China. Practical implications and directions for future studies are discussed.