How You Can Be a Part of the "Future of Work"

In just the last five years, we’ve seen the on-demand revolution impact so many aspects of our lives—from how we commute, to how we eat, travel and shop. The speed, flexibility and satisfaction that these options provide have become so valuable that they are quickly becoming the preferred way of operating.

The next major wave of the on-demand revolution will impact how we work. It’s already impacted the physical elements of the office: cubicles and strict work schedules are out, while open workspaces, co-working arrangements and on-demand office spaces are in. At the same time, advances in technology have enabled us to easily work from wherever we may be. It’s no surprise then, that the next big shift is toward a much more flexible, on-demand employment model, also called the "Future of Work", or Work 3.0.

In Work 3.0, companies hire talent and structure their workforces in a flexible manner to ensure that each business initiative or project is completed by the person with the right skill set and expertise. Opening up the workforce to this fluidity not only enables work across borders, time zones and skill sets, but it also reduces inequality by providing opportunities for those located in areas where global demand outpaces local demand, such as emerging markets. While the on-demand model initially began with task-oriented jobs (hence the term "gig economy"), it is now impacting all companies and levels of employment—including the C-suite!

Companies throughout the world are now working with top-talent and expertise on an on-demand, project basis, rather than hiring full time. This model benefits both parties: professionals with a specific expertise can work on projects of their choice and interests, while employers can work with the best professionals on an as-needed, on-demand basis without a long-term commitment. Advances in technology that easily enable us to work remotely, along with the growing desire for more balance and control in our professional lives, make the on-demand workforce a win-win proposition. 

 A recent Intuit survey found that 80 percent of companies plan to increase their use of flexible, on-demand workers. Another recent survey by Randstad found that nearly 50 percent of all HR managers in the U.S. are planning on hiring independent contractors as part of their overall recruiting effort. The on-demand revolution is no longer just a trend—it’s here to stay, and it’s just getting started!

Thus, it’s imperative that companies learn how to excel in the world of Work 3.0. Given today’s rapidly evolving and competitive business world, companies must become agile, adaptive and innovative in order to succeed.

 So how can you take advantage of Work 3.0? Based on our personal experience at Expertera, here are 8 ways in which you can utilize on-demand talent to achieve success:

1. Want to increase sales, but can’t afford to hire a seasoned sales executive full time?

We connected a startup with a senior, experienced sales expert who worked with their sales team for three months, guiding them in sales tactics, sharing industry know-how, helping them identify new sales channels and traveling with them to three different cities.

2. Want to expand into a new market, but need international know-how and market intelligence?

We connected a medium-sized company with an industry expert with first-hand market knowledge, insights and experience in their desired location.

3. Need an experienced financial executive to set up and/or review current financial controls and processes?

We connected a subsidiary of a global corporation with an interim CFO who successfully assessed and implemented a financial structure in preparation for a business unit sale. 

4. Considering an investment and conducting due diligence but still need to fill in the blanks?

We connected a major investment firm with an industry veteran who answered their questions, reviewed their assumptions, and shared first-hand business insights.

5. Want to identify potential cost reduction opportunities?

We connected a manufacturing company with a seasoned industry executive who toured their factories, identified cost savings opportunities and shared optimal processes/technologies.

6. Growing your company but don’t have time to hire the right team members?

We connected a rapidly growing company with an experienced interim HR manager who screened and interviewed candidates for the CEO.

7. Need to prepare a detailed financial model but don’t have the in-house skills?

We connected a local SME with an experienced financial analyst who quickly and efficiently produced a world-class financial model.

8. Interested in learning about global developments in your industry or recent regulatory changes that may impact you?

We connected a local technology startup with global experts in their industry to share developments, trends, key considerations and opportunities.

These are just some examples of how our on-demand expertise platform has provided critical value to our clients. I hope these ideas inspire you to take advantage of on-demand, top-talent expertise that will take your company to the next level.

#futureofwork #flexibleeconomy #ondemandeconomy #expertise #contingentworkforce