Revolutionising Blue-Collar Recruitment with Project RPO

What is Project RPO? 

In a project-based Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) solution, an RPO partner works to understand the client organisation’s culture, fundamental values, and hiring goals to formulate a solution that encompasses all or selective aspects of the recruitment process.  

Project RPO is a short-to-medium term recruitment solution, optimal for projects like establishing new locations, start-ups, flexible logistics, ramping up resources, or other project-specific hiring needs. 

Why is Project RPO increasing in popularity in the blue-collar sector? 

Historically, Recruitment Process Outsourcing, particularly Project RPO, has been linked to white collar, professional staffing markets; given its association with specialist roles and perception of being cost-intensive. 

Post-pandemic, however, we have seen a significant shift in this mentality, especially among blue-collar sector clients, who are increasingly opting for this model. There are a number of reasons for this shift, including: 

Across the UK, there are still skills shortages. According to research by Cpl's Talent Evolution Group, 93% of hiring managers are concerned about a talent drought in 2024.  Demographic changes, such as the aging population and a decline in EU workers, are shrinking the pool of available, skilled, and qualified candidates. Many companies have decided that in order to attract the skills needed, they need to offer permanent roles to candidates that entice them and stabilise attrition. 

The cost of hiring temporary labour has been significantly influenced by a variety of factors. Changes in legislation, annual increases to the National Living Wage, ongoing increases to agency rates, and skills shortages have all played a role in driving up these costs. These elements combined have created a challenging environment for businesses that rely on temporary resources, impacting their financial planning and operational strategies. 

Post-pandemic, we have observed a significant increase in the number of new ‘startup’ businesses that have excelled and, in some cases, grown exponentially overnight.  Rapid expansion has led to new manufacturing and distribution sites. Internal talent acquisition teams, typically comfortable in recruiting white collar professional roles, have had to adapt to the nuances of recruiting different and more challenging skill sets. 

Clients across multiple blue-collar sectors have invested in new, ‘shiny’ operations.  Old, dilapidated sheds being replaced with state-of-the-art facilities, introducing new ways of working and processes.  Attracting a permanent workforce that is committed is of paramount importance for the new operation to succeed.  

There will always be a recruitment market for temporary resources, but candidates’ wants and desires have changed in recent times.  While temporary work offers flexibility, the lure of a permanent roles with a noted brand that looks after its people has become even more prevalent in recent times. 

How can project RPO support blue-collar organisations? 

Project RPO provides comprehensive support tailored to the unique demands of blue-collar sectors. Here’s how a project RPO can enhance your recruitment strategy: 

Is project RPO the right solution for your organisation? 

The shift towards project RPO in the blue-collar sector signifies a revolutionary change in how organisations approach recruitment. This model offers a tailored, strategic partnership that not only addresses the immediate hiring needs of companies but also aligns with their broader business objectives.