Approximately half, or 53%, of recruiters believe flexible working to be the main priority of the ‘contemporary candidate’, according to umbrella firm Cool Company.

Meanwhile, 50% said that there would be seeing a greater reliance on technology, including remote interviewing (40%) and 39% believed that the focus on diversity and inclusion would continue to grow.

With an increased focus on flexibility and tech, 25% of agencies said that they believed that there would be greater demand for the contract workforce this year, with 58% having experienced a significant uplift in overseas contractor placements in 2022. While 35% said that they anticipated an increase in contractors working remotely in the UK.

Cool Company also found that 47% of recruiters see remote working as an important factor in attracting talent, while a further 40% suggest hybrid working is a key benefit to offer.

Kris Simpson, Country Manager UK at Cool Company, said, “The UK employment scene is facing something of a perfect storm at the moment. With a global talent shortage and a local cost of living crisis, employers are having to do a lot to both retain their existing employees and attract new talent to their businesses.”

“The contract workforce has the potential to provide the answer to that problem. With highly skilled professionals available more or less on demand. But like employees, contractors are looking for a better work-life balance, meaning that placements that allow for remote working are a lot more appealing. While competitive remuneration remains a key draw” Simpson said.

Meanwhile, further research found that 43% of recruiters believed that increasing employee benefits would be beneficial, while 40% of recruiters believed that creating a positive working culture will be an important way to attract talent. At the same time, 50% of recruiters suggested that increased pay is vital for businesses wishing to secure the best talent.