Despite optimistic reports about the state of the US economy, the truth is that times are still tough for many. With financial insecurity and declining spending, cost cutting and unemployment, people are staying in jobs they hate just because they are afraid of not finding something else. From the rubble of these challenging times, a new type of job has reached it’s zenith. This new worker, known as the “independent contractor” eliminates the financial burden of providing benefits. These freelance contractors, IT contractors, consultants, whatever you call them, are a growing force in the new economy.