The 2024 Freelancer Study provides a comprehensive overview of the current and future landscape of freelancing. Conducted through an international survey of 3,424 freelancers and self-employed individuals, the study covers various aspects including financials, working conditions, project work, and shared insights. Key findings include: - **Demography**: 3% of respondents are beginners, 34% had worked as freelancers part-time before becoming full-time, and 42% work with only one client at a time. - **Motivations**: Two-thirds of participants cited the desire for independence as their primary motivation for becoming freelancers, while 34% did so to address changes in personal life situations. - **Economic Situation**: The average hourly rate is €98, with an average net profit of €60,508. Despite rising hourly rates and income satisfaction (64%), the overall economic crisis has dampened optimism. - **Retirement Planning**: One-third of respondents have recently worked in large companies, and 59% rely on investment securities for retirement planning. - **AI and Technology**: 64% of freelancers use AI-based tools to improve efficiency, with a focus on data-driven decision-making and productivity. - **Work-Life Balance**: 70% consider breaks and vacations crucial for work-life balance, and 75% believe AI skills will be indispensable for future success. - **Challenges**: 57% identify project acquisition as their biggest challenge, and 66% complete between two and six projects per year. - **Company Culture**: 49% prioritize equal pay policies, and 57% value sustainable business goals in their clients' corporate culture. The study highlights the evolving nature of freelancing, emphasizing the importance of flexibility, autonomy, and continuous learning in the face of economic and technological changes.The 2024 Freelancer Study provides a comprehensive overview of the current and future landscape of freelancing. Conducted through an international survey of 3,424 freelancers and self-employed individuals, the study covers various aspects including financials, working conditions, project work, and shared insights. Key findings include: - **Demography**: 3% of respondents are beginners, 34% had worked as freelancers part-time before becoming full-time, and 42% work with only one client at a time. - **Motivations**: Two-thirds of participants cited the desire for independence as their primary motivation for becoming freelancers, while 34% did so to address changes in personal life situations. - **Economic Situation**: The average hourly rate is €98, with an average net profit of €60,508. Despite rising hourly rates and income satisfaction (64%), the overall economic crisis has dampened optimism. - **Retirement Planning**: One-third of respondents have recently worked in large companies, and 59% rely on investment securities for retirement planning. - **AI and Technology**: 64% of freelancers use AI-based tools to improve efficiency, with a focus on data-driven decision-making and productivity. - **Work-Life Balance**: 70% consider breaks and vacations crucial for work-life balance, and 75% believe AI skills will be indispensable for future success. - **Challenges**: 57% identify project acquisition as their biggest challenge, and 66% complete between two and six projects per year. - **Company Culture**: 49% prioritize equal pay policies, and 57% value sustainable business goals in their clients' corporate culture. The study highlights the evolving nature of freelancing, emphasizing the importance of flexibility, autonomy, and continuous learning in the face of economic and technological changes.