As a self-employed contractor myself, the software engineering contractor market is much better now than it was when the bubble burst (mid 2000-mid 2002), and after 9/11. I'm still getting 2-3 emails and calls from head hunters every week, and still see a lot of job postings on Dice, Monster, etc...there have been some layoffs, but in general, the demand is still there. We will see what it's like in 6 months, but I don't see it dying off completely...existing and new companies always need software designed and implemented.

Ummm, I meant the contractors you hire to replace your roof.

Who needs a new roof ?

As a self-employee contractor, I have not advertised looking for work for the last 2+ years & I work 5-6 days a week. I don't have job signs or a lettered truck, either. Quality work does my advertising for me.