Once upon a time employers used to hold the upper hand in labour
relations - they were the ones with the money. So, agencies designed to
help employers (and to take some of their money) such as recruitment
agencies grew up.
And all of us, recognising our lack of power in this relationship
compliantly went along with the practices developed by such recruitment
agencies (including not putting forward our personal desires too
strongly, since someone else was paying the bill and they oould afford
to ignore us if we were too much trouble).
At least that is how it was for most of us. Some, with particular or
extraordinary skill (such as actors, Tiger Woods, and Red Adair) also
had money (or were confident they could get some) - so they attracted
agencies interested in doing their bidding (and taking their money).
How many of us are prepared to pay part of our income to someone who
helps us get it?
How many of us really believe someone else can get us some income, and
hence be worth paying them something?
Perhaps, part time and contract people are actually the best candidates,
because they are ususally so busy doing this job they find it hard to
look for the next one. We are just beginning to see agencies in
Australia set themselves up for the benefit of the worker, and
negotiating from an increased position of strength with employers ---
just beginning, but a step in the right direction in my view.
--
Charles Brass
Chairman
Future of Work Foundation
PO Box 122 Fairfield 3078 Australia
Phone 61 3 94590244
Fax 613 94590344
Email : [EMAIL PROTECTED]
The mission of the Future of Work Foundation is:
"to engage all Australians in creating a better future for work"
