Fiverr: 87% of UK firms to turn to freelancers to save on NI. Here are the roles in highest demand

By Staff Reporter Last updated Aug 17, 2025

Michelle Baltrusitis, who leads Community & Social Impact at Fiverr shares which freelance roles offer the best opportunities

Fiverr managers reveal to The Freelance Informer, which nine skills will dominate the market as businesses embrace flexible working and dodge rising employer costs. However, they say there are still policies holding freelancers and the UK economy back compared to other markets

Recent data shows self-employed contractors are on the rise across Britain. Fiverr’s UK Country Manager Michele Tropeano calls this “a broader, long-term shift”. It’s not just about companies avoiding higher national insurance contributions. Instead, businesses are making strategic moves while experienced freelancers and those recently laid off are building more agile and fulfilling careers.

The numbers don’t lie

Fiverr’s 2025 UK Future Workforce Index revealed several trends:

87% of UK businesses plan multiple freelance hires in six months
Over a third of businesses save more than £40,000 monthly using freelance talent
One in five leaders relies on freelancers for critical AI skills

Nine skills that could pay off in 2025

Tropeano’s colleague, Michelle Baltrusitis, who leads Community & Social Impact at Fiverr shares which freelance roles offer the best opportunities:

“User-Generated Content (UGC): Brands need authentic on-camera talent for short-form videos. Acting skills tailored for UGC creation are in huge demand. Companies want individuals who connect genuinely with viewers.
Social commerce expertise: E-commerce is merging with social media platforms. Understanding TikTok Shop and Instagram Checkout is essential. Freelancers can guide brands through successful online sales strategies.
Writing and proofreading: Content fuels digital engagement more than ever. Clear and persuasive communication builds trust. Freelancers who write and edit precisely are essential.
Tax and financial consulting: The economy remains uncertain. Individuals and businesses need strong financial guidance. Expertise in tax codes and compliance requirements pays well.
3D Modelling for Architecture and Product Design: Industries demand realistic and functional models. Real estate, manufacturing and gaming sectors are particularly hungry. Virtual experiences showcase products effectively.
Brand Design and Identity: Development Crowded markets require distinctive visual storytelling. Startups and small businesses need recognisable brands. Logo design and style guides remain profitable.
Building Engineering and Sustainable Design: Construction is adapting to eco-friendly practices rapidly. Engineers understand smart buildings find excellent opportunities. Energy-efficient solutions meet global sustainability goals.
AI Development: Companies race to incorporate artificial intelligence capabilities. API management and open-source tools are valuable. Businesses need help streamlining operations and personalising experiences.
UX Design: Online consumer behaviour changes constantly. Intuitive digital experiences drive engagement. Mobile and web platforms continue transforming user expectations.”

Policy problems persist

Growth faces obstacles, according to Tropeano. “Outdated policy is holding it back,” he says.

Tropeano says IR35 and other tax structures discourage businesses. These regulations harm freelance careers unnecessarily.

“The UK must modernise support for self-employed workers,” Tropeano argues. Global competitiveness depends on embracing flexible working arrangements.