A quarter of employers questioned in a recent survey expect to increase the number of temporary workers they use within the next six months, citing economic instability as the main reason.
The survey of more than 100 HR managers and business owners was carried out in May 2008 by the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) to gain a better understanding of how employers use and perceive agency workers.
84% intend to increase their use of temps so that their business can react quickly to new opportunities in a challenging market. Other reasons for the planned increase include the need to avoid making rash permanent recruitment decisions, the ability to take the pressure off over-stretched permanent workers and the need to fill specialist roles that are difficult to find permanent workers for.
The launch of this survey comes at a time when thousands of temporary jobs could be at risk, depending on the outcome of the EU Employment Council which takes place next week (Monday, June 9th) and on whether the finer details of the recent UK Government deal on agency work ensure that the UK temporary work model is protected.
Tom Hadley, director of external relations, REC, comments:
ìWith the UK labour market in a delicate state, it is crucial that we get the details right on any new regulations on agency work. This is not just an issue for employers, but also for workers at a time when the benefits of temp and contract work in terms of the flexibility, opportunity, and employability that it provides is increasingly recognised.î
Other survey findings include:
- Temps get a fair deal - 84% claim that their temps are paid a similar salary to permanent workers
- Challenging the ëlow-skilledí stereotype - 67% have hired a temp to fill a senior/highly skilled position
- Stepping stone to success - 88% have offered a temp full-time employment as a result of exceptional performance
- Taking the heat off perms - 49% would employ a temp during busy periods to relieve undue pressure on their permanent workforce whilst 44% would try and realign existing resources to cope with the pressures and just 7% would employ another permanent member of staff
Today also marks the first day of National Temporary Workers Week, an annual initiative which celebrates the contribution that the UKís 1.3 million strong temporary workforce makes to the UK economy.
Economic instability fuels greater reliance on temps
Imminent decision on EU Agency Workers Directive must protect UK temp jobs, warns recruitment body
