Commitment and work-related expectations in flexible employment forms: An empirical study of German IT freelancers

Abstract

Summary For some years now a tendency towards a more flexible shaping of employment can be observed. Little research, however, has been dedicated to the question of how relevant this is for the commitment of freelance employees. Therefore, the paper reverts to the question whether - and if so, under what preconditions - freelancers are likely to feel commitment towards the company that employs them. On the basis of an empirical study among IT freelancers, the paper identifies freelance clusters following their work-related expectations. Consequences for their felt commitment hence ensue. All in all it is mainly an affective commitment towards their company that they perceive.Commitment Flexible employment forms Freelanced employees Work-related expectations