90% of Tech Execs Hire Freelancers in Stressful Times

Leading freelance platform Fiverr surveyed 500 US tech executives on their pain points, stressful periods, and adaptation mechanisms surrounding cybersecurity, new technologies (including generative AI), and talent sourcing.

Strategic Insights: Leveraging Freelance Talent in Tech shows that over 50% of the participants identified their primary pain point as cybersecurity threats. Additionally, nearly 40% of tech companies worry about AI adoption and integration of other emerging technologies. Talent acquisition is also among the top challenges for tech executives, cited by 38% of the surveyed tech companies.

For growing tech organizations, optimizing technology and infrastructure is a top concern for over half of the respondents. Nearly as many tech companies (52.6%) worry about maintaining a company culture, while just over half of the participants (50.6%) find sourcing the right talent the biggest challenge for their organization.

Tech companies are optimistic about AI and machine learning, with over 77% of executives expressing a “positive view” and over 40% considering it “pivotal for the future.” Over a third of those who have implemented AI into their organization reported that it has surpassed their expectations and boosted operational efficiency.

The AI benefits, however, are a result of significant investment and prior training. Some tech executives (20%) also reported AI adoption had a “mixed impact” on their organization – in some cases falling short due to challenges with implementation or lack of capability.

These challenges have asked for a more adaptable workforce that can follow the dynamic of the ever-evolving tech sector. Nearly 50% of the companies are looking for talent with expertise in emerging technologies like AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, software, and app development.

Fiverr’s report also reveals that almost one-third of the surveyed tech executives value soft skills like creativity, problem-solving, critical thinking, innovation, adaptability, and communication.

One of the most surprising findings is that 89.7% of tech executives rely on freelancers during times when the tech sector is going through a series of changes, indicating that independent talent is playing a critical role in today’s organizations.

After employee burnout reached its peak in 2023, nearly 90% of tech companies are turning to freelancers to overcome high-stress periods. Hiring independent talent is on the rise, with over 28% of organizations integrating it into their operations. As many as 21% of surveyed companies have freelancers participating in their daily processes, while 30% rely on freelancers two to three days a week.