White collar contractors have reported increasing levels of psychological and emotion wellbeing as a result of their work, which translates into significant benefits for the businesses that employ them.
A study by Entity solutions and Monash University found contractors, or IPros (Independent Professionals), are an overwhelmingly enthusiastic group, with four fifths saying they’re proud of their work, enjoy being immersed in their work and are happiest when working intensely.
The latest IPro index also found contractors are more upbeat than last year, with positive increases being recorded in the areas of wellbeing, perceived support from client and industry-affecting trends.
Overall, working as an IPro emerged not only as a preferred lifestyle but also one that offers a sustainable way of working. According to the study, a strong and positive relationship exists between being in a desired work arrangement, job satisfaction and superior performance. The increasing levels of contentment therefore represent a consistent and positive result for the companies that engage IPros’ services.
According to Entity Solutions CEO Matthew Franceschini, hiring an IPro can deliver significant benefits to businesses.
“IPros bring a great deal of vigour, dedication, absorption and professional efficacy to their tasks. It’s not hard to see why some companies are serial users of them. They realise the benefits of tapping into this enthusiasm and energy.”
The study also found IPros are becoming a key source for knowledge sharing and knowledge transfer amongst clients. During their last project, 75 percent of IPros provided “regular” or “a lot of” progress reports, and 74 percent provided “regular” or “a lot of” project results. This degree of reporting suggests that IPros are performing important roles within organisations where they are often called upon to provide their expert knowledge.
