I to use my buddy list when ever possible. I also only hire one worker so I don't have to deal with the racing and drama on my farms.
I have to say that I am one of those "solo" workers. I have the tools and I still get run over by others with tools. It just doesn't make it much fun when that happens. So what I do when that happens is say thank you and leave. I tell people I work solo so they have the option of hiring me knowing this ahead of time and alot still hire me with others. I don't mind it at all if the others share but not to many do..