In Germany, there are currently about two million people working in a freelance employment – the trend is rising. Is freelance work a higher requirement regarding professional and personal life? The study conducted by psychologists from the University of Hagen is dealing with motivational factors and the question how both handle uncertainty and strain.  Among others the scientists also focused on  IT freelancers. According to the study, freelancers in general and IT freelancers i.e. are mostly contented with their working situation.

Here are some further results of the study:

IT freelancers pursuit economic goals. They are  satisfied with their income and see the flexibility that is required rather as a challenge than as a burden.

The acquisition of projects is not viewed as problematic. The concept of self-promotion is valued highly by the respondents.

None could identify with the stereotype of the lonely freelancer. They can quickly identify with the companies they are working for and see the permanent employees as colleagues. Therefore social skills are very important.

Also freelancers are those who are the ones who could distinguish best between private and professional life.

All in all the researchers came to the conclusion that freelancers are generally satisfied with their working life – still freelancers are confronted with different aspects/obstacles than permanent employees.

What are the differences you have encountered in your freelance working life? In your opinion are freelancers generally more or less content than permanent employees? We are looking forward to your comments.

Based on: elektronikpraxis.vogel.de