Portrait of a Ukrainian Freelancer: Education, Experience, and Main Challenges

According to recent research, an increasing number of Ukrainians are showing interest in freelance work. Currently, 21% of respondents express a desire to work remotely, yet only nearly 5% have transitioned to this flexible type of employment. Thus, the potential for the freelance market in Ukraine significantly exceeds the actual number of specialists who have already chosen this work model.

This is reported by AgroReview

Educational Level and Professional Experience

The portrait of the modern Ukrainian freelancer primarily consists of specialists with higher education. Half of the respondents already hold a higher education diploma, nearly 10% have obtained multiple higher degrees, and over 1% have a scientific degree. Additionally, about 12% are still studying at higher education institutions. Therefore, over 70% of freelancers have or are obtaining higher education.

Regarding professional experience, 47% of respondents have been working in their main specialization for more than five years, of which 29% have experience ranging from 5 to 10 years, and 18% have over 10 years. Only 8% of freelancers lack experience in their field, indicating the high qualification of most workers in this sector.

Desired Income, Workload, and Main Difficulties

In terms of financial expectations, the most popular level of desired monthly salary is 20,000–30,000 hryvnias. About a third of respondents expect 30,000–50,000 hryvnias, while nearly one in five would like to earn over 50,000. A moderate income of 10,000–20,000 hryvnias is acceptable for 17% of respondents, and only 4% are willing to work for a payment of up to 10,000 hryvnias per month.

Regarding workload, 47% of freelancers work up to 20 hours a week, 19% work 20–30 hours, and nearly 14% work 30–40 hours. For many, this means a part-time workweek and maintaining flexibility. At the same time, nearly half of the respondents (48%) indicate that freelancing is their primary and sole source of income. Compared to 2024, the proportion of such individuals has increased.

“The challenges include finding clients (88%), financial instability (72.2%), selling one’s services (61%), time management (48%), and communication with clients (42.2%).”

Freelancers identify the main challenges as finding clients, financial instability, selling their services, effective time management, and communication with clients. This indicates that the primary obstacles are not related to technical aspects but to market competition, the necessity for self-organization, and the ability to independently generate a flow of orders and manage risks. For those accustomed to a stable salary and clear business processes, the transition to self-employment may seem difficult and risky.