Beyond the 9-to-5: Growth and Impact of Freelancers in Today’s Workforce

It’s no longer about where and when we work, but how. Today’s workforce is undergoing a rapid transformation, with freelancing emerging as a significant player in shaping its dynamics and the economy. Recent research by the Upwork Research Institute reveals that 38% of the U.S. workforce, totaling 64 million professionals, engaged in freelance work last year, showcasing a notable increase. As skilled professionals increasingly opt for freelancing to gain flexibility and control over their careers, businesses are also adapting by incorporating freelancers into their talent strategies for agility, competitiveness, and cost-efficiency. Join Dr. Kelly Monahan, managing director of the Upwork Research Institute, in a session exploring the impact of freelancing on the future of work and its implications for businesses. Gain insights into why professionals are turning to freelancing, discover the most sought-after skills in today’s labor market, and explore strategies for businesses to future-proof their workforce through flexible work models. In this session you'll learn: The latest data and trends on why professionals are reevaluating their priorities and seeking alternatives to traditional 9-to-5 work arrangements. The most in-demand skills in today's labor market and how freelancers are filling talent gaps and solving businesses’ most pressing needs in 2024. How businesses can future-proof their workforce through a flexible work model that can help build a sustainable, agile and efficient workforce.