Colin Lindsay|Ronald W McQuaid
Avoiding the ‘McJobs’
Edinburgh Napier University|Edinburgh Napier University
service employment plays increasingly important role uk economy however suggested forms service work unattractive many unemployed job seekers particularly formerly employed traditional sectors argument made job seekers others may reluctant pursue type positions become known mcjobs deskilled entrylevel service jobs often offer poor pay conditions article examines whether reluctance amongst job seekers pursue service work whether differs job seeker groups also compares differences job seekers attitudes towards entrylevel work three areas service sector retail hospitality teleservicing call centre workthe analysis based upon survey 300 registered unemployed people scotland substantial minority respondents ruled entrylevel service work retail hospitality circumstances older men seeking relatively high weekly wages without experience service work perceived lack necessary skills particularly reluctant consider jobs differences job seekers much less apparent relation attitudes call centre work unpopular service occupations across almost groups article concludes policy action may required encourage job seekers consider broader range vacancies provide financial personal support making transition work service economy however demand side service employers must seek abolish mcjob ensuring even entrylevel positions offer realistic salaries decent work conditions opportunities personal development