Given the speed of change most organisations are required to navigate in today’s globalised business environment. Lack of talent presents challenge to organisations, and hence being able to tap into a flexible workforce is vital to staying competitive.
Contracting can support ebbs and flows as well as fixed term projects that require skill sets temporarily.
According to findings in the 2016 Hays Asia Salary Guide, a separate report released earlier this year, 64 per cent of employers surveyed in Japan think that they do not have the talent needed to achieve current business objectives, while almost all employers feel that skills shortages have the potential to hamper the effective operation of their business.
According to a web poll of 237 candidates by recruiting experts Hays, the majority of respondents said they view temporary or contract work as less attractive.
The survey found that 52 per cent of candidates feel that temporary or contract work is less attractive, whilst 21 per cent said it is now more attractive, and 27 per cent said their attitude towards temporary or contract work has not changed in the recent years.
Key highlights from the survey are:
See: Japan is least equipped for Digitisation of Work: Survey Shows
“Contracting is an attractive proposition for both employees and employers seeking flexible working arrangements or to fulfil specialist requirements,” says Marc Burrage, Managing Director of Hays in Japan.
More than 60 per cent of employers as per the survey said that they don’t have the talent needed to achieve their business objectives, while a striking 98 per cent said they are aware of the impact such skills shortages could have on their business. Contracting is an excellent opportunity for such employers and will be the key to filling these skills gaps in Japan.
“At Hays we are seeing a significant increase in demand for temporary workers, up nearly 40% year-on-year and showing no signs of slowing.”
Professionals at all levels can be engaged as a short-term solution to employers’ staffing needs and candidates should be making the most of this trend.
“A little over 20 per cent of those polled are telling us that temporary work is now more attractive and these candidates understand the full benefits of contracting. Contracting is a lifestyle and can be a great career choice. With some excellent opportunities, long-term commitment often available, and variety in your work, it can often represent a better choice than a permanent role.”
Also read: Do Female Employees in Japan Face Gender-Based Inequality at Work?
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