Marvin OnumonuGi Group UK said temporary employment is becoming an important route into permanent jobs, as recent Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures showed a fall in the number of payrolled employees in the UK.
The number of payrolled employees dropped by 74,000 between February 2025 and February 2026, and by 6,000 between January and February 2026.
The early estimate for March 2026 also showed a fall of 0.3% over the year, even as unemployment dropped from 5.2% to 4.9%.
Gi Group added that more employers are choosing temporary placements, rather than permanent hires, due to continued economic and geopolitical uncertainty.
Jan Stroud (pictured), central sourcing specialist at Gi Group UK, said: “Through sustained performance and specialist expertise I am delighted to have been able to progress from temp to perm employment at Gi Group.
“Being part of an organisational structure willing to recognise my contribution, irrespective of my age or disability, has ensured my successful progression.
“Following my MS diagnosis, temporary employment provided me with essential flexibility, but it also created a platform to demonstrate my capability, resilience and commercial value over time.”
Stroud added: “As Gi Group has evolved its Service Excellence model, I have been able to take on a 30-hour contract, reflecting the importance of inclusion and adaptable employment practices.
“Temporary employment was the ideal gateway for my progression – providing a structured yet flexible entry point that enabled me to manage my health while continuing to deliver measurable results.
“Not only was this a great opportunity for me, but it also provided Gi Group with the time to evaluate performance over a sustained period. Temporary work can be a powerful talent pipeline.”
She said: “For anyone in a temporary position now, and looking to gain a permanent role, I truly believe that this route should be viewed as a credible and strategic entry route to long-term employment.
“It allows individuals to demonstrate their value in real-time, while helping them to develop sector expertise and their own industry network.
“Temporary work helped me to re-enter the workforce when I wasn’t sure if a permanent position was viable but through effective management, I now have the confidence to become an integral member of our team.”
She said: “I would urge candidates to treat temporary assignment as an opportunity to evidence professionalism and impact.
“With commitment, adaptability and strong performance, progression is absolutely achievable.”
Paulo Canoa, chief regional officer for Gi Group UK & Ireland, said: “Temporary employment provides an excellent gateway for engaged, motivated and determined candidates.
“Many can view permanent employment as the main entry way into the labour market and stay clear of ‘uncertain’ temporary employment.
“However, this employment style not only provides employees with a guaranteed step onto the employment ladder, but it also allows businesses to assess the value of employees and navigate the transition to permanent contracts, for those they feel are the right fit and show potential.”
Canoa added: “As we face such an uncertain labour market, now is the time for candidates to think differently, to break the mould of looking for a permanent position first and foremost and to challenge the myth that temporary work is always just that.
“We have so many success stories across our business and client base of temporary positions leading swiftly to permanent roles – so much so that we can certainly see a trend emerging across diverse sectors.”
