DOI: 10.5176/2251-1970_BizStrategy14.30
Authors: Dr. Simon Toms, Dr. David Biggs
Abstract: Agency work represents a unique form of employment that has received increased attention in recent years. Supporters of the agency employment industry have cited increased accessibility and flexibility at an individual and organisational level, yet critics have highlighted disparities in treatment and the limited protection afforded by the contract. Previous psychological studies into the working experiences of these employees have forwarded a series of findings that have frequently conflicted, so this article begins by exploring research into the areas of motive, job satisfaction, job security, and organisational support. The aim of the current study is to better understand how this form of employment can psychologically affect agency workers by focussing upon these key areas. The study’s research design incorporated twenty-five semi-structured interviews with agency workers, recruitment consultants and representatives from third party employers. These interviews were then supplemented by longitudinal data from follow-up interviews conducted with agency workers from the initial sample. During the study, the researcher undertook a number of agency working assignments, and ethnographic analysis of diary extracts represented a third source of data. Results highlighted the importance of motive, as it was found to influence how agency workers viewed their employment. The lack of obligation in temporary contracts was perceived to lead to isolation from permanent colleagues, increase vulnerability and reduce job security and organisational commitment.
Keywords: Agency working; Temporary employment; Flexible staffing
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