Freelance journalists are more motivated by lifestyle benefits than money, a new survey has revealed.
The study by Parasol, provider of payroll and outsourced employment services for freelancers, asked thousands of its users to name their favourite thing about their choice of working arrangement.
A total of 76pc of respondents working in the media cited lifestyle factors such as freedom and flexibility (44pc), variety of working on different projects (22pc) and work-life balance (10pc).
In contrast, only 24pc of media freelancers said earning potential was the main attraction.
Parasol managing director Derek Kelly said: “These findings provide a fascinating insight into the mindset and motivation of today’s freelancer.
“In the time-pressured world of 2013, freedom from the rigidity of ‘traditional’ employment – and the subsequent ability to assert greater control over working patterns – is a major draw.
“In many cases, freelancers are driven by a determination to enjoy greater flexibility and an improved work-life balance.
“Forward-thinking organisations that can find ways to offer these benefits will have a better chance of retaining their best thinkers and discouraging them from going down the contracting route.”
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I’ve just gone freelance and am at the stage when I am networking like mad and picking up work. What appeals to me is the variety of writing jobs I’ve secured so far, from football club to small businesses. Work-life balance? Well I’m sure I’ll get some time off at Christmas for the first time in 25 years!
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I’ve been freelance for over a year now and the lifestyle was a big attraction, but for me it was more about no longer working for an organisation which I didn’t feel shared my values and priorities. I got sick of being asked to produce more and more, which inevitably meant a lower standard, then coming into work after publication and knowing I would face complaints from people who were disappointed with the paper – and I would have to defend it, despite basically agreeing with them.
As for work-life balance, I probably work more hours now as a freelance – but at least I’m proud of the work I do, and all the money is going straight into my pocket instead of being used to pay off someone else’s debt!
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