Contract hiring is no longer just a trend - it's becoming a core workforce strategy. In fact, recent data shows that 85% of Irish companies plan to hire contract or temporary staff in 2025.
From driving project delivery to filling critical short-term gaps, contract workers are reshaping how businesses operate. So the real question is: is your business ready to take advantage of this shift?
Why Contract Hiring Is on the Rise
Workforce demands are evolving and fast. Businesses across Ireland are increasingly prioritising:
Flexibility in how they scale teams
Cost-efficiency during economic uncertainty
Agility in workforce planning to stay competitive
In response, contract and temporary recruitment is growing in popularity across all sectors. Whether you're a multinational or an SME, contract hiring offers a smart way to manage change without compromising on quality.
When Should You Consider Contract Hiring?
Contract and temporary workers bring valuable flexibility and skills to meet a variety of business needs. Here are five situations where they can really make a difference:
Filling urgent or unexpected gaps – such as covering for sick leave or maternity leave
Scaling teams quickly – especially during peak demand or seasonal spikes
Driving project-based work – tapping into specialised skills for short-term delivery
Testing new roles – before committing to a permanent hire
Controlling headcount costs – without sacrificing capability or delivery timelines
Contract vs. Permanent: What’s the Difference?
Both hiring models offer unique advantages. The key is knowing when to use each:
Contract Roles:
Faster onboarding process
Access to specialised expertise
No long-term employment commitment
Permanent Roles:
Long-term cultural alignment
Opportunities for career progression
Team stability and retention
The most successful businesses use both contract and permanent hiring, depending on business needs, timelines, and project requirements.
Ready to Embrace the Future of Work?
As the world of work continues to evolve, companies that adopt flexible workforce models will gain a competitive edge. Whether you’re looking for short-term support or scalable project solutions, Matrix Recruitment can help you find the right people at the right time.
Talk to us today to learn more about how our contract hiring solutions can help your business thrive in 2025 and beyond.