The employment landscape has shifted considerably this April, introducing significant considerations for businesses across the UK. The changes will affect how you hire, who you hire, and what it costs to bring talent into your business.
Bottom line impact of wage changes
I'm sure I don't need to remind you that this month's wage legislation changes will have big implications for overall employment costs. While the National Living Wage increases affect certain sectors more directly, the rise in Employer NICs to 15% impacts all businesses, regardless of how staff are paid.
So this makes partnering with a specialist recruitment agency increasingly valuable. We provide current market intelligence on salary expectations across professional roles, ensuring you remain competitive without unnecessary expense. We can help you structure compensation packages that attract quality permanent talent while maintaining cost control. When every hire carries greater financial implications, professional recruitment expertise becomes an investment rather than an expense—particularly for the permanent placements we specialise in, where long-term fit is crucial.
The changing risk profile of worker rights
The proposed day-one unfair dismissal rights will fundamentally alter the risk calculation when bringing in new staff. With higher stakes attached to each hire, our thorough screening and matching processes provide essential risk mitigation.
The strengthened flexible working rights are already influencing candidate expectations. Employers who resist reasonable flexibility requests will find themselves at a disadvantage in attracting quality candidates.
Employers should think strategically
We're advising clients to:
- Consider fixed-term contracts for roles where performance assessment is crucial
- Update workplace policies around flexible working
- Ensure thorough onboarding processes that establish clear expectations
- Build stronger relationships with specialist recruiters who understand your sector
Our permanent placement focus is proving increasingly valuable as the financial and operational risks of poor hiring decisions have increased substantially.
Staying ahead of the curve
Staying current with these employment law changes is essential for maintaining a competitive edge in recruitment. I recommend a quarterly review of your recruitment strategy to ensure it aligns with the evolving legal landscape. Our team is available to discuss how these changes specifically impact your business and recruitment plans. Whether you need guidance on structuring new roles, advice on competitive compensation packages, or a comprehensive review of your hiring process, we offer practical, jargon-free support tailored to your business.
A straightforward conversation today could save considerable time and money tomorrow while ensuring you continue to attract the high-calibre candidates your business deserves. Please get in touch if you need help.