Earlier this year we surveyed 547 successful independent workers (independent consultants, contractors, freelancers, etc.) asking them what attributes are important for success as an independent worker.
We defined success in terms of independent worker longevity and income. Our respondent pool consisted of people who have worked an average of 9 years as an independent worker and have a median income of $87,000.
The word cloud below was developed by analyzing the answers to an open ended question on the attributes required for success as an independent worker.
Not surprisingly, our survey respondents said having a marketable set of skills or expertise is the most important attribute for independent worker success.
Personal attributes such as flexibility, integrity, persistence and being a self-starter are also important success factors.
And, of course, the survey respondents stressed the importance of networks and networking, a topic we've covered a lot lately.
This work was done in partnership with the Career Advisory Board and MBO Partners and more details can be found in the study report - The Successful Independent Contractor: A Workforce Trend for the Future.
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