How to Make Your Staffing Agency Work for You

By TERRA Staffing Group

Posted on February 25, 2019

Smiling woman shaking hands with man sitting across from herIf you’re of the belief that staffing agencies are a waste of time, odds are high that you had a negative experience with one.

Maybe:

  • you never heard back about potential job opportunities.
  • they were unable to secure you long-term employment.
  • you were placed on assignments that weren’t the right fit.

These are completely justifiable reasons to feel frustrated with a staffing agency.

But before you dismiss all staffing agencies as unhelpful, we want you to consider the following: staffing agencies want to find you a job.

And not just any job. They want to find you a job that is right for you.

Think about it from a purely business standpoint.

Staffing agencies only get paid when they make successful placements. The more successful placements they make, the more money they make.

When you win, they win.

How do you make your staffing agency work for you?

While there is never a 100% guarantee that a staffing agency will find you a job, the chances of being placed increase significantly when you follow the tips below.

Be responsive.

If you receive a call, text, or email from your staffing agency, respond as soon as you are able. Even if they are reaching out to offer you a job that doesn’t interest you. Reply.  The important thing here is follow-up. Responding to their attempts at communication lets your recruiter know that you are available for opportunities and keeps you top of mind. Plus, it’s just the polite thing to do. It not only speaks favorably of your character, it will make a positive impression on your recruiter.

Be honest.

Honesty is absolutely crucial if you want your staffing agency to work for you. Not only does it strengthen your relationship with your recruiter, it is critical in determining whether a staffing agency can help you satisfy your needs. Be up front about the types of positions you are willing to accept, how far you’re willing to commute and your pay expectations. In doing this, you prevent your recruiter from wasting your time with opportunities outside of your needs. Keep in mind, however, that the more restrictions you have, the more you limit yourself and the agency’s ability to help you

Be flexible.

One thing that recruiters appreciate is flexibility. If you are in a position where you can keep an open mind about the types of employment opportunities you’d be open to taking on, you increase your odds of finding a position. Sometimes short-term positions lead to full-time job opportunities, yes. But what people often forget is that being flexible and taking on assignments helps you build a strong brand with your recruiter, which can really help open doors for you. Your recruiter can now vouch for your work ethic and attitude directly to potential employers. They’ll see you as someone who can be counted on. Plus, it’s a good way to earn some income while they continue to search for a better long-term fit.

Be proactive.

Sitting and waiting to be offered jobs is a common mistake that people make after their staffing agency interview. Remember, this is a partnership. Your recruiter wants to place you, but you have to do your part. Check in regularly and let them know you’re still available for work. Send them any updated resumes. Ask if any new positions have come in. If anything changes about your expectations or job requirements, communicate it. The more they know, the better they can help you.

Partner with TERRA Staffing Group

Now that you know how to make your staffing agency work for you, the next step is choosing a staffing agency that is right for you.

At TERRA, our mission is simple: Success Stories Created Daily.

Every year we help thousands of people find employment across multiple industries.

We have offices in many locations and our expert recruiters are waiting to speak with you!

Categories: Career Tips

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