Survey reveals contract work is now more attractive

SINGAPORE: Eight out of 10 workers in Singapore find contract assignments an attractive option given the current global economic environment, according to a new survey by recruiting experts Hays.

More than 200 Singapore candidates took part in the online survey.

80 per cent said that contract assignments have become a more attractive option in recent years.

13 per cent said contract work is now less attractive to them, while the rest reported no change in their attitudes towards such work.

Better work—life balance was one reason for those who preferred contract work.

Contract workers said they have the chance to advance their skills and career on their terms by choosing the employer and assignments they take on.

They can also get more pay as employers save on other permanent staff benefits such as annual leave.

Employers on their part said they can hire particular expertise when needed for special projects.

Another bonus of using contract workers is the support they can provide to a business’ permanent workforce.

Rather than continuously redistributing work between current permanent employees, which can reduce productivity, increase stress and may negatively impact health and safety, contract resources can support a permanent team and help productivity of a business.

— CNA/xq