A recent survey amongst UK freelancers has uncovered a beacon of hope and positivity amid the gloom of current economic forecasts and rising unemployment figures. It would seem that 77.5% of freelance and contract workers surveyed over the Christmas break, believe their business will improve over the coming year.
The survey conducted by people4business.com, a leading UK recruitment website, asked 24,000 'sellers' of services to give their verdict on the forthcoming year. They received a resounding positive response. Many freelancers that took part in the survey cited a general improvement in outlook amongst their clients. Additionally, they point to a growing trend to restructure businesses with flexible workforces; to meet the demands of the expected growth.
Perhaps understandably, optimism was muted amongst freelancers who work exclusively within the Public sector. Even contractors that serve the private sector do not credit an improvement in the general economic climate for their buoyant outlook. Most freelancers point to a growing trend amongst employers toward the use of a temporary workforce as the key factor over an improvement in the general economic climate.
“The findings are consistent with other recent research* amongst employers that indicate that temporary and freelance staff will be at the forefront of economic growth,” stated Duncan Taylor MD of www.people4business.com. “Tentative steps toward recovery will fuel the flexible job market.” *
Blissful!
The findings of the research also encompassed a 'happiness index'. A staggering 86.3% stated they were happier as freelancers since switching from permanent positions. The happiness was measured on a scale from ‘moderate to ecstatic’. Nearly 20% of freelancers described themselves as 'Blissfully happy'.
“Whatever the new year brings it is certain that an increasing proportion of the workforce will seek new work and alternative employment through online communities and websites like people4business.com,” claims Duncan Taylor. “Our community of both employers and employees has accelerated by 52% over the last year and it shows every sign of greater dynamism throughout 2011”
