The vast majority of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are still cautious about taking on extra staff over the next 12 months, according to a new study.
An overwhelming 92 per cent of respondents in the research – conducted by Elance – said that the temptation to expand their workforce was being offset by a desire to keep their costs level.
Unfortunately for employees, staff salary freezes were highlighted by a third of SME leaders as a measure that would help them keep costs down in the new year, while hiring freelancers instead of more permanent workers was an equally popular solution.
So despite plenty of positive news circulating around the economy these days, it appears as though many business owners are unwilling to put their money where their mouth is when it comes to investing in their company.
Do you agree with the issues raised in the survey? How likely are you to take on more staff in 2014?
Posted by the Secret Businessman