Make no mistake about it: years from now we will look back and see where the years from 2008 to 2010 fundamentally changed how the world does business.

There is little debate anymore about how much consumers have changed in just a short time. The Great Recession has left them skeptical, and thus more informed in their decisions. They are connected everywhere through social media. The advance of the Internet means they are shopping businesses 24/7.

But it isn't just the consumer that will be different tomorrow; so too will be the workforce.

Freelancers and home offices will be commonplace, not just due to changing technology, but also a changing economy.

It is true that online project management applications and web conferencing software make communicating with remote employees easier than ever, and the technology with only keep improving. It is the changing economy, however, that will be the driving force that leads to more individuals freelancing and working from home.

Despite the fact that many individuals have wanted to pursue freelancing opportunities, businesses have traditionally been reluctant to rely on these professionals in a meaningful way.

What businesses are finding, however, is that business models and technology are changing so fast that they are finding the need for professionals that are specialists in certain areas, and needed for only short amounts of time. It is freelancers, and not high-priced specialty firms, that are best suited to fit this need.

While this prospect can be unsettling for many, for those who have always wanted a freelance career, the prospects are exciting. Knowing your specialty, the problem it solves for businesses, and having a strong personal brand will be the key to your success.