In today's fast-paced financial landscape, the concept of "Earned Wage Access" (EWA) is revolutionising how employees view their earnings and how companies manage payroll. For staffing companies, this innovation is not just a convenience but a competitive necessity. This blog will explore why earned wage access is becoming indispensable for staffing companies and how it benefits both employers and employees.

What is Earned Wage Access?

Earned wage access, also known as On-Demand Pay, is a financial service that allows employees to access a portion of their earned wages before the traditional payday. Instead of waiting for a bi-weekly or monthly paycheck, employees can withdraw their wages as they earn them. This service can be particularly beneficial for those living paycheck to paycheck, providing immediate access to funds for emergencies or unexpected expenses.

Read more about what Earned Wage Access is here.

Keywords: Earned Wage Access, On-Demand Pay

The Rise of Earned Wage Access in the UK

The United Kingdom has seen a significant uptick in the adoption of Earned Wage Access services. As more employees demand financial flexibility, companies are beginning to recognise the competitive advantage of offering On-Demand Pay options. In the UK, this trend is becoming increasingly popular across various sectors, including staffing companies that aim to attract and retain top talent. Overall, about 15% of employers in the UK currently offer Earned Wage Access to their employees, in some industries this is much closer to a third.

Why Earned Wage Access is Essential for Staffing Companies

1. Attracting Top Talent

One of the most significant challenges staffing companies face is attracting top-tier candidates. In a competitive job market, offering On-Demand Pay can serve as a unique selling point. Employees are more likely to choose a staffing company that provides financial flexibility, thereby making the company a more attractive employer. Companies which use Level, have seen up to a 62% reduction in unfilled shifts. Read more about this here.

2. Reducing Turnover Rates

High turnover rates can be costly for staffing companies. Earned Wage Access can improve employee satisfaction by providing financial stability, which in turn can reduce turnover rates. Employees who feel secure and valued are less likely to seek employment elsewhere. Companies which use Level, have seen up to a 50% reduction in staff turnover. Read more about this here.

3. Boosting Productivity

Financial stress can significantly impact an employee's productivity and overall wellbeing. By offering Earned Wage Access, staffing companies can help alleviate financial stress, allowing employees to focus better on their tasks and improve overall productivity.

4. Enhancing Employee Engagement

Employee engagement is crucial for the success of any staffing company. Providing On-Demand Pay options can enhance engagement by showing employees that the company cares about their financial wellbeing. Engaged employees are more likely to be motivated and committed to their job.

How Staffing Companies Can Implement Earned Wage Access

1. Partnering with Earned Wage Access Providers

The first step for staffing companies looking to implement earned wage access is to partner with a reputable on-demand pay provider. These providers offer the technology and infrastructure needed to facilitate on-demand pay seamlessly. It is recommended to consider providers which are a part of the UK’s Earned Wage Access Code of Practice. This code sets the benchmark for quality in the industry, and ensures both you and your employers receive high quality service.

2. Educating Employees

Once a partnership is established, the next step is to educate employees about the benefits of earned wage access and how to use the service. Clear communication is essential to ensure employees understand how to access their wages and any associated fees.

3. Integrating with Payroll Systems

Finally, staffing companies need to integrate the earned wage access service with their existing payroll systems. This integration ensures that wage withdrawals are accurately tracked and do not disrupt the company's payroll operations. Level integrates with many of the leading HR and payroll systems in the UK, which can be viewed here. If you don’t see your software, our team will be able to integrate with your technology during the onboarding process.

The Future of Earned Wage Access in Staffing

As the demand for financial flexibility continues to grow, earned wage access is set to become a standard offering for staffing companies. The benefits of on-demand pay are clear: it attracts top talent, reduces turnover rates, boosts productivity, and enhances employee engagement. For staffing companies looking to stay competitive and meet the needs of their workforce, implementing earned wage access is not just an option—it's a necessity.

Conclusion

Earned wage access is transforming the financial landscape for employees and employers alike. For staffing companies, this innovation offers a competitive edge that can help attract and retain top talent, reduce turnover rates, and improve overall productivity and engagement. As the trend continues to rise, especially in the UK, staffing companies that adopt earned wage access are likely to see significant benefits.

Stay ahead of the curve and consider implementing earned wage access in your staffing company. The future of payroll is here, and it's on-demand.