Recession Forces Recruitment Freezes for SMEs

Recession Forces Recruitment Freezes for SMEs

26.6.2009

The recession is continuing to pressurise Small to Medium-sized Enterprises in the UK to reduce costs, with recruitment hit heavily, reports onrec.

According to a survey by Monster.co.uk, the current economic climate is forcing three quarters of UK SMEs to recruit at lower levels, with only a fifth planning to carry on hiring as normal.

Julian Acquari, managing director, Monster UK and Ireland, commented, “With smaller enterprises the loss of one member of staff can have a dramatic impact on the remaining employees.

The shrunken workforce will often be forced to take on a lot more work often beyond their existing capacity. Managers should not underestimate the importance of ensuring the wellbeing of the staff who remain and take appropriate measures to help prevent burnout.”

Monster recommends the following tips for SMEs forced to cut back on recruitment:

- Ensure that workers are given time to discuss their workload with managers

- Implement measures to boost morale

- Avoid resentment from employees by ensuring that all workers are clear on why recruitment has been reduced

- Always reward staff who have taken on work above and beyond their usual responsibilities

To read the full article, as featured on the onrec magazine, click here.

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