Journal of Human Resource Management

Journal of Human Resource Management

Identifying the Reasons and Consequences of the Freelancing Mindset among Human Resources in Governmental Organizations

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Associate Prof, Department of Public Administration, Faculty of Management and Economics, Lorestan University, Khrramabad, Iran.
2 Ph.D. Candidate, Department of Public Administration, Faculty of Management and Economics, Lorestan University, Khrramabad
3 MSc. Student, Department of Public Administration, Boroujerd Branch, Islamic Azad University, Boroujerd, Iran.
10.22034/jhrs.2025.541037.2466
Abstract
Background & Purpose: This research, with the aim of deeply studying the experiences of managers and employees of state organizations in Lorestan province, seeks to uncover and identify the reasons and consequences of the freelance mindset of human resources.
Methodology: This study is a mixed-method (qualitative–quantitative) research. A total of 25 university professors, managers, and public sector employees from Lorestan province were selected as the sample using purposive sampling with the snowball technique based on the principle of theoretical saturation. Data were collected through interviews and questionnaires, and through content analysis and the Fuzzy Cognitive Mapping (FCM) method, the factors and consequences of the human resources freelancing mindset were identified and prioritized..
Findings: The findings indicate that in the qualitative section of the research, ten factors related to the formation of the human resources freelancing mindset were identified, as well as ten factors related to the consequences of the human resources freelancing mindset. In the quantitative section of the research, the most important reason for the formation of the human resources freelancing mindset was identified as unmet job needs, and the most significant consequence of the formation of this mindset was recognized as time flexibility.
Conclusion: This research emphasizes the necessity of structural change so that the freelancing mindset can turn into a competitive advantage and human resources can be utilized toward greater organizational effectiveness. It also enables managers to identify the reasons behind the importance of developing this mindset and its consequences, allowing them to focus on effective actions instead of ineffective ones.
Keywords

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Volume 15, Issue 4
Spring 2025
Pages 138-169

  • Receive Date 12 August 2025
  • Revise Date 20 October 2025
  • Accept Date 06 November 2025