New research has revealed that the majority of UK contractors use resources, such as umbrella companies, to find new employers and projects.
The survey, which was carried out by the FPS Group and ContractJobs.com, found that more than 70 per cent of UK contractors are using recruitment agencies and job boards to find new employment opportunities.
Out of the 1,600 respondents surveyed, more than 42 per cent of umbrella service contractors and freelancers secured their current position through a recruitment agency.
The findings also revealed that worryingly many contractors are leaving it late to find their next role, as 80 per cent were found to have not made any plans until the last two months of their contracts.
Fifteen per cent only start the search once they are already out of work and 36 per cent start looking for alternative positions within their last month of work.
Out of the respondents, it was the 60-65-year-olds that were found to be the most prepared in the search for their next job, with 48 per cent of this age range starting to look for alternative positions over two months before their current job role ends.
Matt Huddleston, Chief Financial Officer, FPS Group said, “The results show that recruitment agencies are still the first port of call for contractors looking for a new position. But worryingly contractors are taking risks in securing their next role by leaving their search until the last minute.
“It comes as little surprise that the over 60s plan the furthest ahead when looking for their next position. A competitive jobs market and tough economic conditions have meant that over 60s are being savvy in the fight for sought after contracting positions, and therefore ensure they are looking well in advance of their current contract’s end.”
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