Why Should You Consider Hiring Tech Freelancers in the UK?
In recent years, the gig economy has grown rapidly across the world. In the United Kingdom, there has been a surge in the number of tech freelancers, with many individuals opting for the flexibility and autonomy of self-employment. This article explores the rise of tech freelancers in the UK and their impact on the economy.
According to a study by the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed (IPSE), the number of freelancers in the UK increased by 14% between 2011 and 2019. The majority of these freelancers work in the tech sector, with over 1.4 million tech freelancers in the UK alone. This number is expected to grow even further in the coming years.
The Rise of Tech Freelancers
1. One of the main reasons for the rise of tech freelancers in the UK is the demand for digital skills. As businesses across all sectors become increasingly reliant on technology, the demand for skilled tech workers has surged. However, many companies are not in a position to hire full-time employees, which has led to an increase in demand for freelancers.
2. The rise of remote working has also contributed to the growth of tech freelancers. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the trend towards remote working, with many businesses opting for remote work arrangements to reduce costs and increase efficiency. This has created a huge opportunity for tech freelancers who can offer their services remotely, without the need for physical presence in an office.
Tech freelancers in the UK come from a variety of backgrounds and specialisations. Some are software developers, while others are designers, project managers, or consultants. They work on a variety of projects, from building websites and mobile apps to developing complex software systems for large corporations. The flexibility of self-employment means that they can work on projects that they are passionate about and that match their skill sets.
The Impact of Freelancers in The UK Economy
The impact of tech freelancers on the UK economy is significant. According to a report by Oxford Economics, freelancers contribute around £305 billion to the UK economy each year, equivalent to around 15% of GDP. The tech sector is one of the biggest contributors to this figure, with tech freelancers earning an average of £43,000 per year, compared to the national average of £29,600.
Significance of Tech Freelancers
Tech freelancers also bring a number of benefits to businesses. They can provide a cost-effective solution for companies that do not have the budget to hire full-time staff. They can also offer specialist skills that are not available in-house, which can help businesses to stay competitive in an ever-changing market. Tech freelancers can also bring fresh ideas and perspectives to a project, as they are not bound by the same restrictions as full-time employees.
However, there are also challenges that come with being a tech freelancer in the UK. One of the biggest challenges is the lack of job security. Freelancers do not have the same legal protections as employees, and are often at risk of losing work if projects are delayed or cancelled. They are also responsible for their own finances, including taxes and insurance, which can be complex and time-consuming.
Conclusion
The rise of tech freelancers in the UK has been driven by the demand for digital skills and the trend towards remote working. While freelancers bring many benefits to businesses, including specialist skills and cost-effectiveness, they also face challenges around job security and financial management. Nevertheless, the tech freelance sector is set to continue to grow in the coming years, and will play a crucial role in driving innovation and growth in the UK economy.
