17th January 2012

Contractor outlook increasingly optimistic

The outlook for contractors appears to be increasingly optimistic as recruiters have suggested that things are looking up.

While the latest Report on Jobs from the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) showed problems for both the permanent and temporary jobs market in the last quarter of 2011, the first quarter of the year looks set for improvement.

Managing director of Findlay Cameron, Steve Bellemy, told the REC that there has already been a boost in the number of vacancies released as businesses have returned from the festive holiday period.

He added that the manufacturing, professional services and engineering sectors are particularly likely to see a strong first quarter.

Chris Croucher, MD of AMC Insurance Appointments, added that the main problem of late has been a lack of key skills among potential contractors. He observed: “Recruiters should work closely with clients to identify key skills shortages that might be holding back further growth - find the right candidate and a portion of those growing incomes will surely be diverted to the recruitment budget.”

Contractors might find that now is a good time to apply for work just before the market as a whole gains momentum and jobs are all snapped up.