One of the clear findings from the MBO Partners State of Independence study series is that, on average, independent workers (freelancers, independent contractors, the self-employed, etc.) and those with traditional jobs have different risk profiles.
Simply put, independent workers are more comfortable with the risks associated with being independent than traditional job holder are. They're also are more willing to accept these risks in return for greater work autonomy, control and flexibility.
As the chart below shows (click to enlarge), 65% of those with traditional jobs think it's risky being an independent worker or running your own business versus only 18% of independent workers.
This different view on risk is reflected by what people value in terms of their work.
Independent workers tend to value the flexibility, autonomy and control independent work provides. Traditional job holders tend to value stability and a predictable income.
Interestingly enough, as the chart above shows both groups tend to be satisfied with their income.
That independent workers are more comfortable with risk than traditional job holders may seem obvious.
But it's rarely discussed in the debates around independent work and the gig economy.
Nor is the willingness of most independent workers to trade security and a predictable income for greater levels of work autonomy, control and flexibility.
Instead the assumption by many is that most independent workers - like most traditional job holders - would prefer having a traditional job.
This assumption is simply wrong.
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