The majority of contractors feel valued by their clients, with more than 58 per cent saying they are recognised for the work they do, new research shows.

A survey, conducted by accountancy firm Brookson, also found that contractors in the oil and gas sectors feel particularly valued, with 83 per cent saying they are appreciated in the workplace.

In addition, half of contractors believed that the sector they work in will produce good opportunities for the next five years.

Martin Hesketh, managing director of Brookson, said: "These figures represent an encouraging outlook from both contractors and their clients. It's nice to see they're being appreciated and demonstrates a willingness among businesses to hire contractors."

Meanwhile, John Mason, events and experiential manager of Sans Frontiere, has advised contractors to give out freebies to help them maintain good rapport with their clients.

He said that the rise in social media means that people are more likely to feel that a brand owes them something because they have been engaged with it.