A qualitative examination of Thai freelancers’ business model enhancement through the integration of social and human capital in the global market

Abstract

The research examines how these two forms of capital are interwoven and instrumental in freelancers’ success and provides a comprehensive examination of the strategies employed to optimize and integrate human and social capital, offering a nuanced perspective in the backdrop of a non-Western freelance landscape. A qualitative approach underpins the study, employing in-depth, semi-structured interviews to garner rich, contextual insights. The selection of 42 participants, each boasting at least two years of professional experience, was achieved through purposive sampling. Data collection and analysis were strengthened by an interview guide and a meticulous triangulation of diverse data sources to bolster validity. Ethical integrity, encapsulating confidentiality, informed consent, and participant autonomy were meticulously upheld throughout the research process. The findings underscore the criticality of a balanced blend of technical proficiency, soft skills, and adaptability for freelancers. Thai professionals exemplify an integration of traditional educational values with contemporary online learning platforms, indicating a dynamic approach to skill enhancement. Social capital emerges as equally pivotal, with networks, both online and offline, playing a crucial role. The study reveals a symbiotic relationship between human and social capital, where individual competencies are magnified through expansive and enriched networks. These insights not only chart the trajectory for Thai freelancers but also contribute to the broader narrative of the global freelance economy, accentuating the roles and interplay of human and social capital in freelancers’ success.