Looking for work? Hire an agent, not an agency

Have you ever felt that you were used by a temp agency? You apply for a job, they call you and barely talk to you for five minutes and you are already being told where to go to work tomorrow. This seems great, or does it? Is there a little voice in your head flashing warning signs? My Dad always told me that if it’s too good to be true, it probably is. If they cut corners to hire you, what other corners did they cut? Will you be working in a safe environment; will you get paid fairly? Will you be treated well and with respect while working there? Are there any opportunities for your future at this job? If you have ever experienced a shady interview process like this, then it’s time for you to hire an AGENT, not an agency.

With global uncertainty and an international workforce to compete with, companies will continue the move toward contract work to keep them competitive and continuously dialed in to the most innovative technologies and ideas currently available. Companies are doing away with the illusion of ‘job security’ or ‘permanent’ jobs in favor of constant change and evolution. Let’s be honest, no job is permanent. Most companies do business in a global market that is advancing faster than any other generation has seen and to most millennials entering the workforce, this is just fine.

As the baby boomers retire and millennials enter the workforce, the number of available workers continues to decline. This puts the employee at an advantage. Reliable, energetic and tech savvy workers are desirable, along with those just looking for entry level positions. You will need to choose the right agent to represent you in this high demand market.

Here are some key elements to look for when choosing a company to represent you in your job search, which will help get you hired and keep you safe while doing so. Partnering with an employer that does the hiring for several different companies in your field or location can offer you many advantages.

ADVANTAGES:

• Save time
  • By applying to one company you could in fact be applying to many – this is a great time saver and ensures you are using your interview time efficiently
• Expertise
  • Working with a company that has expertise in your field can give you advantages in training and development opportunities
  • They can guide you through the processes of starting at the bottom and working up
  • They can coach you on the best way to noticed and be hired or promoted in this field
• Inside knowledge
  • They have inside knowledge of the organizations they work with and can give you advice and guidance to help you find the right fit for you

WHAT TO LOOK FOR:

• How much do they know about their clients?
  • Are their clients reputable in the community?
  • What is the work environment like?
  • Have they met the supervisors that you would be working with?
  • Is it a safe environment?
  • Have they been onsite and can they describe the details of the job you are going to do?
  • Will they meet you onsite and introduce you?
• How much do they know about you?
  • Did they do a full interview and assessment process with you?
  • How much time did they spend getting to know you, your skills and what you are looking for?
  • Did they evaluate your skills and experience?
  • Have they met you in person?
  • Did they offer you training to help you be ready for this opportunity?
• Will they value you?
  • What is a realistic timeline to get hired by their client? Don’t be afraid to ask this; if it’s not their goal to help you get hired then this may not be the right agent for you.
  • What is the process if you don’t think the fit is right for you? Do they have a schedule to follow-up with you to see how you are doing?
  • Are they concerned about your safety and protecting your rights as a worker?
  • What do they offer you?
    • Competitive wages
    • Benefits
    • Performance appraisals and feedback
    • Coaching
    • Job perks

Choosing to work with an agent to help you find work can be a rewarding experience. Ensure that you have taken the time to vet them and ensure they are reputable. If they don’t respect you or you feel like a ‘temp’ instead of a valued worker then maybe it’s time to re-evaluate who you relying on to help you in your career. If you take the time to make the right selection, an agent can help facilitate a great start to your career, even if you are only looking at entry level opportunities. At SRG we don’t call ourselves an ‘agency’ because we feel that it doesn’t represent a true picture of the commitment we give to helping people find opportunities where they can grow. If you are looking for an AGENT, not an agency, to help you in your career, contact us today.