The number of people in China choosing to freelance is rising, according to international recruitment firm Hays.

Hays stated that an increasing number of workers are opting to freelance rather than take on permanent roles due to the flexibility it offers, while businesses are attracted by the same flexibility.

“Freelancing is a very attractive option for many workers with key skills in demand. Moving from project to project allows people to be in charge of their own career” Simon Lance, Managing Director of Hays in China, said. “Businesses understand the true benefits of a flexible workforce too. It gives them a chance to quickly bring in certain skills only when they need them, whether that’s to work on a particular project, to cover annual leave or at times of peak workloads.”

“Businesses must remember that when they are making a short-term hire the freelancer may not be engaged with the brand and company’s values like a permanent employee is” Lance said.

Lance also stated that that it may also be necessary to educate permanent staff about what a temporary or freelancer’s hourly rate really means.

“While a freelancer earns a higher hourly rate, they do not receive paid annual leave, sick leave or benefits,” Lance said.