Free to have imbalance? Freelancers’ work–life balance and the moderating role of three key work facets

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to enrich the HRM literature on freelancers’ work–life balance. To do so, we investigate the difference in freelance and employed journalists’ work–life balance and the moderating role of work-scheduling autonomy, job-income security and collegial informational support, drawing on a theory novel to the HRM literature, that is, the Stress of Higher Status Theory. Design/methodology/approach: Data were collected with a survey questionnaire that was administered to a sample of 1,166 journalists, including 118 freelancers, in Norway in 2021. We analysed this data using a stepwise regression analysis. Findings: We report three main findings: First, we find evidence indicating that freelance journalists have less work–life balance than employed journalists. Second, our results provide support for the Stress of Higher Status Theory and testify to the relevance this theory has for high-skill workers. Third, only collegial support significantly (positively) moderates freelancers’ work–life balance. Originality/value: This study adds to the existing literature on freelancing and work–life balance, demonstrating that individuals’ work arrangements have the potential to shape their work facets and work–life balance. The theoretical and practical implications of this are discussed.