The Economist recently posted an article about the on-demand economy and the implications of it on companies, workers and politics. It stated that it puts a new pressure on people who participate to master multiple skills or keep their skills up to date--since there is someone who can fill those shoes ready, on-demand, to be hired from anywhere in the world. It brings up issues about taxes and healthcare, which has led to some political debates in various cities, which have banned companies like Uber. There’s also a pressure (that has already begun) when more and more freelancers begin to compete with one another.

“People will also have to learn how to sell themselves, through personal networking and social media or, if they are really ambitious, turning themselves into brands. In a more fluid world, everybody will need to learn how to manage You Inc.” (Economist)

So, what do we think?

1. We agree that the way governments measure employees and wages has to change to accommodate the freelancers of the world. Did you know there are 53 million freelancers in the U.S.? (Freelancers Union) It just might be more normal to have a “project” on the side than you thought. The way we tax needs to reflect that.
2. The on-demand economy opens the doors for people to connect with others across the globe for work or money through peer-to-peer marketplaces. The way Airbnb made home sharing simple, the on-demand economy is making our ever-growing world feel even smaller. And we’re all about connecting people.

So, should you worry about your personal brand as more and more of your skills and assets are now commodities?

Yes! Whether it’s your car, home, surfboard, time or experience, someone wants to spend money on you. Manage your reputation and your assets, there is a marketplace waiting for you to participate.

Not sure it exists yet? Then maybe you should start it...