Recruitment freeze thaws

A survey by the CBI and Harvey Nash, reveals that the number of businesses operating a recruitment freeze has fallen from a peak of 61% in spring 2009 to 7% this autumn. The survey says that pay freezes have also thawed; falling from a peak of 55% of employers last spring to 14%, but pay restraint remains the norm as firms try to control costs. While most firms (67%) describe the current employee relations climate as co-operative or better, many businesses are concerned that relationships will become more difficult next year. ‘Firms are cautious about recruitment and pay, given the fragility of the economy. But they know they can’t afford to take staff for granted, and must redouble efforts to keep employees on board as they gear up for growth,’ said John Cridland, CBI Deputy Director-General.

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Nov 10