Final answer:
The distinction between an employment contract with a specified period and one where such a specification is absent would most influence the duration of fixed-term contracts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The distinction between an employment contract with a specified period and one where such a specification is absent would most influence the duration of fixed-term contracts. If an employment contract specifies a period, then the contract is for a fixed-term, meaning it has a predetermined end date.
On the other hand, if the specification is absent, the contract would be an indefinite-term contractual arrangement, which does not have a predetermined end date.
In an employment contract with a specified period, both the employee and the employer agree to fulfill the contract terms for the duration of the specified period.
The contract automatically terminates at the end of the specified period. Conversely, an employment contract without a specified period allows for an indefinite duration of the contract, providing more stability for the employee.