Freelancing, once a fringe career choice, has evolved into a mainstream profession. Today's freelancers are empowered with an unprecedented array of options, from diverse job platforms to innovative tools, reshaping the contours of the gig economy.
Freelancing has been around for centuries
References to the word “freelance” date back to the early 19th century
- In 2017 Upwork reported that freelance workforce growth is accelerating and has outpaced overall U.S. workforce growth by 3x since 2014
- By 2028, there will be over 90mm freelancers in the US, making up over half of the workforce
How to Land Your Next Freelance Gig
- Join trade or industry associations where you will be able to meet others who share your interests
- Social media
- Upwork
- FlexJobs
- Freelancer
- Indeed
- Fiverr
- Contena
- 99 Designs
- The Creative Loft
- Remotive
- Belay
- We Work Remotely
Technological advancements
As technology advances, freelancing will become more commonplace
- A wide variety of workers, skills, and jobs are available
- Typically, technical skills are needed first, followed by creative skills
- The availability of contract work creates a lot of opportunities for freelancers with these skills to pick up contract work
Cost reduction:
Employers can save money by hiring freelancers on an as-need basis
- Most freelancers only require internet access and a computer
- Starting out as a freelancer is very affordable: for the first few months, you may only have to sign in to freelance websites and platforms and pay for your internet service
Freelancing is expanding into other industries
Freelancers are in high demand in almost every skill area that can be done in front of a computer
- They’re using freelance talent in more new ways and mom-and-pop shops are realizing that this is a workforce they can tap into
Hybrid and remote work is here to stay
90% of companies surveyed predict that they will gain a competitive advantage by including both full-time and freelance employees
- Workers have more freedom to live wherever they want while still having access to various job opportunities
- 70% of workers will work remotely at least five days a month by 2025
People are choosing to freelance
Getting a healthier work-life balance is the top reason people choose to freelance, according to a FlexJobs survey
- 62% of survey respondents said that flexibility of work schedules was a significant factor in their decision to freelance.
- Having the freedom to work anywhere and move without fear of losing their job was highly regarded by 55% of respondents
Creativity boost and deeper talent pool
Freelancers have many opportunities to develop their creative skills
- Accessing diverse cultures and approaches for all fields is facilitated by exposure to international markets and various industries.
- Employers can tap into a deeper and more innovative and diverse talent pool.
