When looking for work, taking advantage of all resources can broaden your prospects. Diversifying job search strategies can open more opportunities than using single, standard methods. One such alternate method may be an employment agency.
Employment agencies have existed for many years and, like every other industry, have gone through transitions from what they once were (temporary industrial and secretarial services) to become what they are today – staffing partners! However, many people still hold to the belief that agencies deal only in “temporary” or clerical employment. This is no longer true. Approximately 75% of jobs through employment agencies may ultimately be permanent, and many offer benefits after 60 days. In fact, some companies do most or all of their hiring through an agency exclusively, thus alleviating much of the overhead costs and “legwork” associated with recruitment. By working with an agency, you may get your foot in the door of a company who may have otherwise closed that same door.
So now that you see the benefits of working with an agency, where do you begin? First, do your research and decide on a couple agencies that specialize in your employment field. Areas of specialty include technical, administrative, accounting, sales and marketing, executive level and others. Find out what companies they work with, the types of positions they see, their interviewing process, etc. Let the agency know if there is a particular company for whom you’d like to work. Most agencies have longstanding relationships with local companies in a variety of industries. This may be a way to get past the “gatekeeper” and in for an interview with that high profile company.
Second, be open to suggestions from the agency. They deal with hundreds or thousands of employers and job seekers a year and know the importance of presentation and appropriate matching. They may help you to improve your resume, interviewing skills, salary requirements and negotiation. Since the agency only gets paid if you get the job, they want you to be presented in the best way possible, and will negotiate the highest salary possible. For professional level positions, approximately 85% of resumes submitted by an agency result in an interview. Those are great odds! Use them to your advantage!
Lastly, treat all contact with an agency as you would contact with a potential employer. Since the agency will determine where to submit your resume for employment and represent you to the employer, you want to make the same impression on them as you would to the employer directly. Be professional, courteous, articulate and confident!
You can help to expand your job search by including staffing agencies. Here are a few questions to ask when deciding who to work with and how to best present yourself: · Who’s paying the fee for placement? Placement fees should be paid for by the employer.
· What companies have they worked with and what jobs they have filled there? Are they currently “partnering” with any companies?
· Is the agency interested in your professional goals? Are they looking for a good match for you with the skills, culture and requirements of employers? Is the agency fiscally sound with a good reputation? Do they have experience working in your industry?
· Will your resume be sent without your permission?
· Does the agency offer any training opportunities?
· Are they going to “skill market” you? Does the agency search on your behalf with companies they have relationships as well as your target companies?