Trabalho informal: é na informalidade que sou reconhecido

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the role informal work plays in the lives of self-employed individuals, whether or not they have a background in administration. It is grounded in the concept of informal work as a form of independent entrepreneurship that operates outside the formal and legal frameworks of the labor market. The study employs a qualitative, descriptive approach guided by the deductive method, encompassing a diverse range of profiles: self- 3 employed individuals with and without administration training, graduates from other fields, and administration students. Data collection was conducted through semi-structured interviews, followed by a comprehensive and interpretive analysis. The main results reveal that entry into this type of work occurs in diverse ways, driven by economic necessity, family legacy, the pursuit of personal fulfillment, and market opportunities. A strong sense of being valued was observed among the interviewees, bolstered by word-of-mouth promotion and the strategic use of social media. Furthermore, a background in administration emerged as a key differentiator, providing practical tools in finance and marketing to navigate the paradox between autonomy and financial instability. Thus, informal work serves as a legitimate arena for autonomy, identity formation, and a means of subsistence, acting as a driver of local socioeconomic development. In conclusion, informal work fosters recognition through the act of entrepreneurship, even though practitioners still face challenges related to structural and financial vulnerabilities.