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New HireArt Survey Insights: Contractors' True Priorities

The 2025 Contractor Workforce Survey published by HireArt provides a refreshing perspective on what contingent workers desire from their roles. Contrary to the prevailing belief that flexibility is the most sought-after trait of contracting positions, the findings suggest that the majority of contractors actually value stability and professional development.

According to the survey, 89% of contractors expressed openness to contract work not as a primary pursuit, but rather as a secondary choice. Only a small 14% of contractors indicated that they are genuinely interested in ongoing contract roles. A staggering 24% emphasized that their next job must be a permanent one, thus showcasing a clear trend towards seeking traditional employment.

Christopher Brower, Co-founder and President of HireArt, emphasized that contractors are not chasing flexibility for the sake of it; they are looking for respect, support, and a route to sustainable employment. He warns employers that understanding these insights is essential for creating a more engaged and loyal workforce.

Key Findings from the Survey

1. Professional Development is Key

About 30% of contractors list training and skill-building as their top priority. With an overall ranking of 4.23/5, professional development is seen as crucial for transitioning into stable, permanent roles. Contractors want to grow their skills and knowledge in order to enhance their employability.

2. Communication and Benefits Matter

When assessing workplace priorities, contractors rank effective communication equally with core benefits such as health insurance and pay. Their top factors included:

• - Hourly compensation (4.62/5)
• - Quality of health insurance (4.57/5)
• - Timely employer support (4.54/5)
• - Affordable health coverage (4.48/5)
• - Strong communication (4.48/5)

These ratings underline the importance of a supportive work environment that values contractor input.

3. Contract Work as a Bridge

One of the most telling insights is that contractors predominantly perceive their roles as temporary solutions leading to more stable positions, rather than long-term lifestyles. This shift in mindset urges companies to reconsider how they craft their support systems for contractors.

The Call to Action for Employers

This survey serves as a critical wake-up call for organizations relying solely on the allure of flexibility to attract contingent workers. HireArt’s findings advocate for a shift in how employers treat contractors: they need to be seen as essential team members, not just stop-gap fillers. By offering unwavering support, opportunities for growth, and clear communication pathways, companies can establish a more engaged and productive workforce.

Conclusion

HireArt’s 2025 Contractor Workforce Survey decisively impacts how organizations should engage with their contingent talent. The evidence suggests that meeting workers' desires for stability and professional development will lead to better retention and workforce satisfaction. Companies can thrive by fostering an environment that values growth and supports individual contributions, thus ensuring that their contingent workforce is not only satisfied but also aligned with the company’s broader objectives.

For more in-depth insights, be sure to check out the full report from HireArt.