Almost 4 in 5 contractors feel they're treated differently from permanent staff

This pushes attrition rate higher.

Lack of company inclusion is the biggest challenge for contractors in Hong Kong.

According to the latest Hong Kong Contracting Survey from international recruiter Robert Walters, its survey polled 400 professionals who are contracting or have been in a contract position before, of which 35% considered the lack of company inclusion their key challenge at work, followed by no job security (33%).

Moreover, a majority of contract professionals (78%) felt that they were not being treated in the same way as permanent employees, and 8% have left a contract early as they were unable to integrate with the wider team. As organisations have a growing need for contractors, it is important for companies to improve contractor engagement to better leverage the contingent workforce.

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Matthew Bennett, Managing Director - Greater China, Robert Walters, commented: “The results indicate professionals’ shifting perception towards contracting. Instead of treating contract jobs as a quick way to get back into the market or earn a higher salary, professionals increasingly see contracting as a viable career option and a good opportunity to gain new experience. They value company inclusion and seek to contribute to the business with their specialist skills.”

“When contractors are being treated differently from permanent staff, this often leads to low morale and higher attrition rate. With the increase in contract job openings, there will be growing competition for specialist contractors. Organisations should consider offering better benefits, and encourage more interaction and communication with the team to make contractors feel that they are also part of the company.”