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Contract workers hit hardest amidst layoffs
By siliconindia
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Friday, 06 February 2009, 22:32 IST |
3 Comments
Bangalore: As layoffs have become day-to-day affair for most of the companies, it's contract workers who feel the pinch most. Since there are no legislation regarding the appointments and firing of contract workers, companies can easily show the door to such employees whenever they want.
Lack of legal regulations makes contract workers the favorite pick for short-term assignments. Most of the contract workers face greater risk and insecurity as they are paid high salaries. "Hiring contractors cost companies more in the short-term but reduces long-term cost liabilities for the employer and clients also prefer a contract hire strategy as it is easy to lay off contract staff, not attracting negative press coverage" said Anil Passi, a contract worker for the last eight years.
Contract workers are also lacking flexibility with regard to location as they have a few choices and have to be open to more onsite work.
"Contract workers are expected to hit the ground running from day one and produce results. They are hired for specialized jobs and aren't given many chances to make mistakes. Increased competition between them raises the pressure on rates too," opined Suneel Sadhwani, a contract worker for 10 years.
Unlike permanent jobs where the employees have growth structure and career satisfaction, contract workers may have to do the same work even after 10-15 years without any emphasis on training and career development.
However according to Anil, as long as contractors keep their skills updated, they will earn big bucks and get to work for multiple clients. This exposure will increase their market value. Further, since they are not part of the management ladder, they are safe from petty office politics.