10 Predictions for the Future of Independent Work

It’s difficult to know what the future of work might hold, but one thing is for certain – independent professionals are poised to be more important than ever before in years to come. In today’s project-driven economy, more businesses than ever before are turning to independent talent to fill workforce needs—nearly two-thirds (65 percent) of executives say their external workforce is essential for operating at full capacity and meeting demand.
 
We've taken a look at our own data, in-depth industry studies and have spoken to industry leaders to compile 10 predictions for what working in the future might look like, both in 2019 and in years to come.

“It’s no secret that the number of Americans choosing independent work is growing. The very nature of work in America is changing rapidly, resulting in a fundamental shift in the landscape over the course of the next decade,” says Gene Zaino, CEO of MBO Partners.

“We need to do everything we can to foster innovation in this area and fully unleash the economic potential of the more than 40 million independent workers in the United States. Businesses, workers and policymakers all need to understand the impact of trends like automation and the skills gap on a major segment of our population to ensure America succeeds in the globally competitive economy now and into the future.”