Are Gen Z the freelance generation? The youngest generation in the current workforce is embracing careers in freelancing. A recent survey from Upwork found that 52% of Gen Z respondents have engaged in freelance work in their careers. These results mirror a report released by the online talent platform Fiverr, which found that approximately 70% of Generation Z were either currently engaging in freelance work in their careers or were considering freelancing. In this article, we will answer the question of who Gen Z is and why this generation has embraced freelancing in large numbers.
Who is Gen Z?
Generation Z (Gen Z for short) is the name given to the generation born between 1997 and 2012 (These years may vary slightly according to sources). Gen Z is currently the youngest generation in the workforce.
A digital generation:
Gen Z is the first generation to grow up in the digital, always-connected era. This age cohort is largely proficient with digital technologies, as they have grown up with increased access, even more so than their older millennial counterparts.
Why is freelancing so popular amongst Gen Z?
Gen Z has embraced freelance careers in more significant numbers than the generations before them. Research from Upwork's Research Institute has reported that 52% of Gen Z respondents have engaged in freelance work in their careers compared to 44% of millennials, 30% of Gen X and 26% of boomers. Many Gen Z professionals recognise freelancing as a viable and favourable option alongside the traditional 9-5 employment model, a report from Fiverr has found. There are many reasons for this, including location freedom, autonomy, work-life balance, and lifestyle. Some of the biggest attractions to pursue freelancing include:
- Remote work opportunities: According to Upwork's Freelance Forward Report, 64% of respondents cited being able to work from a location of their choosing as a benefit and attraction of freelancing.
- Flexibility: In their study, Fiverr reported that 30% of respondents sought increased flexibility in their working environment, working times, and ability to travel.
- Project Autonomy: In their study, Upwork reported that 62% of survey respondents cited the ability to choose projects they wish to work on as an appeal and benefit to freelancing.
In addition to pursuing freelancing, Gen Z's attitudes to freelancers and remote work are more favourable than those of their cohorts from other generations. This can be seen in the following areas:
- Strategy: Findings from Upwork have highlighted that 61% of Gen Z recognises working with freelance professionals as an integral component of an organisation's talent strategy, compared to 47% of millennials and 35% of Gen X.
- Remote work: The same publication found that the majority of Gen X and Millenial professionals value the effectiveness of remote work more than their Gen X and Boomer colleagues.
- Engaging with freelancers: Upwork's research also found that Gen Z was increasingly likely to work for an organisation that participates with freelancers and engages with them themselves in the future in their role.
In conclusion:
As the way we work continues to evolve and Gen Z make their mark on the workforce, it is evident that this generation's preference for freelancing stems from their desire for flexibility, autonomy, and a digitally connected work environment. The appeal of remote work opportunities, project autonomy, and flexibility has propelled Gen Z to embrace freelancing as a viable and favourable career option. With their proficiency in digital technologies and the values of work-life balance, this generation is redefining traditional work structures. If you would like to read more about the benefits of a career in contracting/freelancing, check out our article, which breaks down the pros and cons of contracting.
If you are interested in learning more about pursuing a career as a freelance professional or contractor or plan to hire one, please do not hesitate to contact us today. Whatever your contracting query, our team is on hand to help.
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