WORKPLACE TREND OF THE FUTURE VII: Free Agents Will Take Over The Workforce!

Free agents are the fastest growing worker segment in the United States, and their number will continue to increase rapidly over the next decade as companies look to hire the best talent on a project basis and workers take charge of their own careers.

Free agents are expected to represent 40 percent of the U.S. workforce by 2012, according to market research firm EPIC-MRA, as baby boomers adopt alternative careers in retirement and tech-savvy young workers seek more control and variety in their burgeoning careers.

The move to hiring temporary and contract employees, freelancers and consultants is beneficial for both companies and workers. Companies enjoy greater flexibility in meeting the cyclical ebbs and flows of business and realize tremendous cost savings related to benefits and the administration of a full-time, permanent workforce.

Free agents also gain flexibility and a increased work/life balance, not to mention the potential to earn more money as they sell their expertise to the highest bidding organization.