New research from Fiverr has revealed that 71 per cent of 16 to 26 year olds (defined as “Gen Z”) in the UK plan to go freelance at some point in their careers or already work for themselves. The research, part of a global study by Fiverr, polled more than 2,000 members of Gen Z in the UK.
The research found that 36 per cent said that being their own boss was their ultimate career goal, either through freelancing or owning their own business, while 49 per cent said that their ultimate career goal was to become financially comfortable.
39 per cent of respondents said that they felt they could attain a fulfilling job either as a freelancer or in a full-time role. 32 per cent said that their work ethic was driven by passion and 20 per cent claimed that they “live to work”, rather than “work to live”.
The top priority listed among Gen Z respondents to the survey was flexible working hours (44 per cent), followed by a positive work culture (35 per cent) and the capacity to increase skills (34 per cent). Just 24 per cent, however, said that the offering of remote work was a priority, indicating that flexibility with time is more important to Gen Z than flexibility with working location.
42 per cent of Gen Z freelancers say they do so in order to earn extra income, while 39 per cent say it suits their lifestyle better. 38 per cent say it is a good way to earn money amid rising inflation, with 28 per cent saying that being freelance means they can adjust their rates to adapt to rising living costs.
27 per cent would consider freelancing if they were to be out of a job, but 31 per cent voiced concern that freelancing full time in the current economy may not bring them stability.
Fiverr CMO Gali Arnon said: “As the latest generation to enter the workforce, Gen Z is at the forefront of the latest trends transforming the world of work. Amid an economic downturn and a rapidly shifting labour market, we’re seeing Gen Z continue to prioritise flexibility and passion-driven work, making freelance careers an increasingly appealing option.”
“As we’ve observed in the growing community of Gen Z freelancers on Fiverr, the autonomy freelancing affords serves as a major draw for a generation eager to pursue their passions, hone their skills, and have more control over their earnings and career trajectory.”
