Patterns are changing, yet much is familiar. Easily 25 million follow those alternative schedules by choice. Yet regular full-time employment is at its highest level in years, at 70 percent of the work force. Workers are uncertain and impatient. Wage and salary employees now stay an average of 3.5 years in the same job, compared with 20 years back in the 1950s.
Small businesses have trouble filling positions in the strong economy.
Workers have choices, but so do companies. Many are using Internet connections to outsource operations, such as parts supply, accounting, even personnel. Some labor unions are adapting to a world of independent contractors and nonunion technology companies. The Communications Workers of America now offers training in Internet skills to associate members, who work for Microsoft, Cisco Systems and other companies. The associate members pay lower dues but do not get collective bargaining representation because they work as contractors or for nonunion firms.