Taking on temporary jobs could give people the best chance to secure longer term employment. Amazon, Tesco and Co-op have announced the creation of thousands of new jobs in recent days. And many of them will go to workers who were hired on a temporary basis to help them meet consumer demands during the coronavirus pandemic.
Redwigwam, the UK’s leading flexible working community, says it is seeing this trend where some of its 130,000 flexible workers are being offered full-time employment having initially provided support in a temporary role. Demand is particularly high now for roles including drivers and workers in warehouses and fulfilment centres. Many businesses in sectors such as FMCG, logistics and transport are now gearing up for huge demand in the run-up to Christmas, but on the back of having already worked at maximum capacity throughout the pandemic lockdown.
Lorna Davidson, founder and CEO of redwigwam, said: “Among the news of substantial job losses, it is great to hear that companies like Amazon, Tesco and Co-op are recruiting thousands of new workers.
“It’s also particularly satisfying that many of those being rewarded have shown what they can do in temporary roles during the crisis. For those who have lost, or are about to lose their jobs, becoming a flexible worker offers a great way to quickly get back into work. There are all sorts of benefits to becoming a flexible worker. You can start earning straightaway, you get back into a work environment quickly and you can use it as an opportunity to learn new skills.
“As we have seen with the recent job announcements, it can also provide a fantastic stepping stone back into full-time employment if that is what people are seeking. For many others, flexible work can become a career in its own right for those looking to manage their own portfolio of jobs, while for some flexible work provides a top-up on their regular salary.”
redwigwam has seen a huge rise in the number of workers and businesses using its AI-powered online platform since the coronavirus lockdown began. In addition to the 130,000 workers registered on the platform, over 3,500 businesses have signed up to tap into the company’s talent pool of quality workers.
Businesses using the redwigwam community to find workers include Coca-Cola, Kellogg’s, Morrisons, Tesco, Burtons Biscuits, SimplyCook, the Snaffling Pig Company and Revolution Bars.
Redwigwam recently unveiled a new brand identity and high-profile integrated marketing campaign, including a national TV advertising debut under the banner “Changing Work for Good”. It follows private equity investment into the Liverpool-based business secured during the lockdown.
