Says Adcorp’s chief executive officer, Richard Pike: “At Adcorp, we prefer to talk about a scheduled, managed and career-orientated flexible workforce instead of just temporary staff. This is because flexible staffing is becoming a ‘permanent’ employment trend across the world.”

Another international trend is the predominance of young people between 18 and 37 in the workplace. Known as generation X and Y, this grouping now represents about 14 percent of the global workforce.

Quest, an Adcorp company, has become one of the largest recruitment agencies in South Africa. Virtually 100 percent Quest’s flexible staff are young people.

Says Richard: “Generation X and Y employees are more geared than ever before to enter and be successful in the 21st century world of work.”

Adcorp advances the careers of thousands of young South Africans every year, young men and women who trust Adcorp to guide their flexible career paths.

“We take this responsibility seriously. Our investment in the training, development and well-being of our flexible staff is huge.

“Young people must be aware that flexible staffing is an exciting, positive option that offers a unique freedom to experiment, diversify and attain skills across many industries and in many companies.”