Why Do People Become Freelancers?

Why Do People Become Freelancers? In a recent survey of current freelancers, almost 63% said if given the choice they would continue freelancing over a full-time job. The reasons for this range from better working conditions to overall improvement in happiness and security. Below is a look at why people choose to be freelancers. 66% I began freelancing to be my own boss. 37% I began freelancing to earn supplemental income. 24% I began freelancing after being downsized. WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT FREELANCING? Why did you begin to freelance? "Being able to contract the jobs I want and conversing with clients on a global level." - Pat C., Elancer Survey 79% Control over my own schedule 74% Being my own boss 73% No commute / Can work from anywhere What do you like best about 66% More choice over the projects I can do freelancing? 46% No chance of lay offs 38% No cubicles 33% No office dress code Наppiness A 45% No 7% No Are you happier since you started freelancing? Do you feel ... 54% Yes 93% Yes secure as a freelancer? Preference Would you prefer full-time employment? 9% Yes, if I could find full-time employment at a company I would. 11% I still haven't decided. 17% I'm currently a full-time employee; I freelance on the side. 63% No, I prefer the freelancer lifestyle. What is your freelance frequency? 4% I'm freelancing until I find a full-time job. 8% It varies between full-time and part-time. 7% Thave a part-time job and freelance. 21% I have a full-time job and freelance on the side. 50% I freelance full-time. 10% Other Salary %24 43% No 32.5% Yes 24.5% I have never worked a full-time job in my industry. Do you earn more as a freelancer than you did as a full time employee in your industry? Has your income increased since becoming a freelancer? 15% Same 23% Decreased 62% Increased Work Hours How many hours do you work weekly as a freelancer? Hours Worked Per Week: 22% >40 16% 35-40 20% 21-34 21% 11-20 21% 0-10 42% More time 34% About the same 24% Less time Do you work more hours as a freelancer? Do you feel you have more personal time? 25% I have never worked full-time as an employee in my industry. 25% Yes 50% No Workplace Where do you work? 2007 2010 85% Home 71.8% 7.1% Private Office 9.6% 7.9% Shared Ofice 7.7% Public Space 10.9% FRESHBOOKS Sources: Elancer Talent Report Survey 2010 I Rockable Freelance Confidential Survey 2010 painless billing