"The concept of freelancers as slackers is completely over"

In 2013, 23m Americans were self-employed, that's up more than 24% from 2003. It has becoming increasingly easier to become an independent contractor. Better insurance options, improved hiring platforms and new co-working spaces are helping independent contractors succeed.

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For workers, it has become easier and less risky to go solo. Affordable health-insurance plans, which kept many workers shackled to traditional jobs, are more accessible because of the Affordable Care Act. And companies are increasingly open to hiring freelancers and independent contractors. Many say independent workers bring fresh ideas without the long-term commitment. An industry dedicated to serving the companies that offer freelance and contract work and the people who fill those openings is growing. Gigs can be found at a number of websites, such as Upwork.com and Freelancer.com, or through hiring services that connect professional freelancers and companies. And providing shared rented office space, as companies such as WeWork do... In 2013, 23 million people were self-employed, according the US Census Bureau. That's up 1.2% from the year before and up about 24% from 2003.

http://www.businessinsider.com/the-9-to-5-job-is-dying-2015-6