The latest quarterly Fast 50 Index from Freelancer.com reveals a surprising resilience and growth in the freelance job market, even as artificial intelligence (AI) tools become more prevalent. Based on data from 251,000 jobs posted between April 1 and June 30, 2024, the report highlights unexpected trends that counter common predictions about AI's effect on freelance work.
Computer Security has emerged as the fastest-growing freelance skill, with a 27.1% increase in job postings, indicating a heightened demand for cybersecurity expertise among small-to-medium businesses. This trend is complemented by a 9.9% growth in Network Administration jobs, underscoring the critical role of digital security across industries.
Contrary to fears that AI would diminish writing and content creation opportunities, the sector has seen significant growth. PDF writing and Microsoft Word projects increased by 26.7% and 23.9%, respectively, with Copy Typing also rising by 11.6%. Legal jobs, another area presumed vulnerable to AI, grew by 12%, with Legal Research jobs up by 10.8%, showcasing the enduring value of human expertise.
Matt Barrie, CEO of Freelancer.com, remarked on the findings, noting, 'AI is creating more jobs than it takes.' This observation is supported by the growth in general business services like Market Research and Telemarketing, which saw increases of 21.1% and 19.4%, respectively, as new businesses seek freelance support to scale.
Electronic Repairs, though ranking 19th among the top 25 fastest-growing jobs in Q2 2024, has experienced a remarkable year-over-year growth of 162%, attributed to initiatives like the Freelancer Global Fleet Program. Meanwhile, eCommerce-related jobs have declined, a seasonal trend post the initial business launch phase.
Freelancer.com's annual AI survey further illuminates AI's impact, with 52.5% of over 4,100 global respondents reporting stable or increased earnings since AI's introduction, and only 17.7% earning less. This data challenges the narrative of AI as a threat to freelancer income, suggesting instead that adaptation to new technologies and focus on high-demand skills can lead to success in the evolving gig economy.
For those entering the freelance market, the report identifies Graphic Design, PHP programming, Photoshop, Website Design, and HTML programming as the most popular skills by volume, offering viable pathways for newcomers. The findings underscore the dynamic nature of the freelance job market and its capacity to adapt and grow in the face of technological advancements.
