Do you think we will see more and more free agent employees and consultants than traditional employees in the future? If so how will that impact us as small business employers?

Definately I think you will see more people looking for a second career that allows them more flexibility and the ability to work more at home. As small business employers this trend should work to our advantage because we can be more flexible.

Thats a good point I think flexibility is going to be important with the new workforce

While it is easy to see us small business owners winning in this environment, one also has to look at the cost of making it appear that the employee is in the office using advanced technology i.e. video conferencing in that regard, larger employers with more capital may attract these types of workers.

I think with people living longer and the wealth of the baby boom generation the number of independent consultants will clearly grow. This is going to be a boon for small businesses because they will be able to get more seasoned employees at less cost because of their flexibility.

I agree there is going to be a lot more competition in the consultant arena and I think you will see a lot more people getting 1099s versus W2s because they will want to work on projects and on their own schedule rather than working 9-5pm.

I think that given the election results over the next few years anyways it is going to be a more difficult environment unless you are a government consultant. The new congress will not be as friendly to small businesses including consultants.