Episode 67: The Definition of Work

We’ve touched on the role of the self-employed professional in the workforce in the past, addressing California’s AB-5 legislation. It is in the news again with a proposed rule from the Department of Labor that would define who is an “independent contractor.”

To a large extent public sector, and even private sector, entities do not entirely understand the nuances of what it’s like to work independently. We don’t fit the traditional mold of an independent contractor. Our companies may not fit the definition of a small business. And yet we are businesses. This results in rules and legislation crafted to address the freelance and gig economy that does not consider those of us who are self-employed, running micro agencies.

While this rule may not affect us directly, it’s important that we keep an eye on it and future ideations like it to prevent it from harming our ability to retain work. The only way for our legislators to know how we operate is to educate them. Introduce yourself to your legislators – send a letter explaining who you are and what you do. At the hyper-local level – state legislature, municipal representative – invite your rep for a cup of coffee to help them understand how your business functions.

This “future of work” has been here for quite some time. The ability to complete our work outside of the traditional 9-to-5 spent in a corporate office has grown with the onset of employees working from home. How that affects the valuation of our work from hours clocked to quality of work product remains to be seen.

As always, we have hope for a bright future. What are your thoughts? Share with us a soloprpro.com.