New research has revealed how the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has seen an increase in demand for freelance workers among UK businesses. The study, conducted by Worksome, a digital platform connecting freelancers and businesses, polled freelancers in the UK and US.
It found that 45 per cent of UK and US freelancers had seen higher demand in 2021, as a result of COVID-19 and the “Great Resignation”. The Great Resignation, which occurred after remote working and the pandemic prompted employees to reassess their careers and job satisfaction, led to record job vacancies in the UK.
14 per cent of respondents to the study said that they had become freelancers as a direct result of the Great Resignation. 72 per cent of freelancers said they were happier than when in full time, while 61 per cent said they had more free time and 53 per cent said they were now earning more as freelancers.
Regarding the motivations for going freelance, job flexibility and work-life balance was cited by 78 per cent, putting it higher than money (70 per cent). 66 per cent also cited the fact that freelance work enabled them to focus on causes that matter to them as a motivation.
However, the study also reflected the challenges of freelance work, with respondents citing finding the right work, deciding on pricing and managing their accounts and taxes as core concerns. 23 per cent also said they had struggled to find work as a result of their age, with age discrimination most commonly reported in the 50-59 years-old age bracket (29 per cent).
Worksome CEO and co-founder Morten Petersen said: “The world of freelance work continues to evolve in line with changes accelerated by the pandemic. While a significant portion of workers moved to freelancing as a result of COVID-19 and the Great Resignation, competitive rates of pay, better work life balance and purpose are making freelance work a compelling long-term career for those in multiple sectors around the world.”
Fellow co-founder and Worksome COO Mathias Linnemann added: “This research shows positive news from the freelance community in terms of job satisfaction and remuneration. It proves that the freelance workforce is critical to secure competitive advantages for future looking companies. However, more can still be done to better utilise the skills of freelance workers while new technology can help overcome traditional pain points like finding the right job, communicating with clients and fair pricing.”
