Companies who do not embrace the use of flexible workers such as IT contractors are missing out on a lot of talent, an expert has claimed.

With the UK suffering from a skill shortage, it is more important than ever that firms ensure they have access to as many highly-qualified workers as possible, according to Mike Petrook, spokesperson for the Chartered Management Institute.

He goes on to say that companies need to keep in mind that it is the quality of the output and the work that is delivered, that is more important than the input and the amount of hours a worker is sat at a desk.

"Are they meeting the objectives? Are they helping the organisation? That's what really counts. Flexibility is the key," Mr Petrook added.

According to the latest research from Hays, many UK firms are not recognising the benefits that IT contractors can offer, instead just seeing them as a way to keep permanent staff numbers down.