As the UK continues to grapple with the cost-of-living crisis, new research* has unveiled a significant shift in contractor priorities.

The Contractor Census 2024, which surveyed more than 2,300 contractors across various sectors, reveals that 87% now rank pay rates among their top three priorities when selecting roles, highlighting the growing importance of financial security in today’s uncertain economic environment.

The findings reflect the profound impact that rising inflation and stagnating wage growth are having on the contractor workforce. When asked what concerns them most about the current economic landscape, 40% cited the cost-of-living crisis as their top concern. This was followed by job security, with 17% of respondents selecting this as their primary worry.

As a result, according to the research, contractors are often prioritising pay over other factors such as job location, contract duration, or even the nature of the work itself. This shift in focus underscores the increasing financial pressures contractors face as they navigate a challenging economic landscape.

Alex Moore, business development director at Sapphire, commented: “The cost-of-living crisis is clearly influencing the way contractors approach job opportunities. While factors like flexibility and work-life balance have traditionally been important, financial stability has become a pressing concern. For recruiters and their clients, offering competitive pay rates is even more critical to attracting top talent in an increasingly competitive market.”

While the preference for competitive pay is evident, the survey also found that location remains an important consideration, with 78% of contractors identifying it as a key factor.  However, the emphasis on pay appears to be a dominant theme across all sectors, with contractors in finance, construction, and engineering particularly emphasising the need for strong compensation packages.

Alex continued: “In a market where contractors are becoming increasingly selective, offering competitive day rates is critical to securing top-tier talent. Recruiters and clients need to be prepared to negotiate effectively and tailor their offers to meet the specific needs of contractors. This could involve structuring rates to account for shorter contracts, fluctuating market demands, or niche expertise.

“Contractors are acutely aware of their value, and those who fail to adapt their approach to compensation risk missing out on the most sought-after candidates.”

The Contractor Census 2024 provides a comprehensive understanding of the evolving contractor landscape. The report aims to uncover the key factors influencing contractor decisions, offering unparalleled insights that help recruiters and employers adapt to the changing needs and preferences of the contractor workforce.

*Reseach from Sapphire

https://wearesapphire.co.uk/contracting/contractor-census/