Question

Can we say that the self-employed earn more than the casual wage labourers or regular salaried employees? Identify a few other indicators of quality of employment.

Answer 1

No, we cannot say that the self-employed always earn more than casual wage labourers or regular salaried employees. Earnings depend on the type of work, skills, demand, experience and business conditions. Some self-employed people may earn very high incomes, while others may earn less than salaried workers.

Other important indicators of the quality of employment are:

• Job security whether the job is permanent or uncertain.
• Regularity of income whether earnings are received regularly.
• Working conditions such as safety, working hours and workplace facilities.
• Social security benefits, such as pension, insurance, provident fund, paid leave, etc.
• Skill level and opportunities for promotion.
• Stability of employment throughout the year.
• Fair wages for the work performed.

Hence, quality of employment should not be judged only by income. Job security, regular earnings, working conditions and social security are also important.