Working with a staffing company can be an excellent way to gain experience in new industries, bridge the gap between permanent jobs, and even find long-term work. Indeed, staffing companies often have access to an array of job opportunities that you might not know about otherwise. But if you’ve never worked with a staffing firm before, you might feel unsure about how to proceed. After all, it’s a bit different than applying directly for one open position with a single company. Let’s consider some dos and don’ts of working with a staffing company below:
Do dress the part. Many people mistakenly assume that the interview process with a staffing company is an informal process that doesn’t require a professional presentation. In fact, you should treat an interview with a staffing company the same way you would treat an interview with any company– with utmost professionalism. This includes appropriate dress, arriving a few minutes early, and having extra copies of your resume and cover letter on hand.
Don’t be picky. Telling your recruiter that you will only work one type of job with very specific hours isn’t likely to land you an opportunity quickly. While it is important to make your preferences known– for example, if you prefer to work in the accounting field, say so– being flexible is key. That is, be open to positions that allow you to get your foot in the door in the industry you’re interested in. A positive attitude and an open mind go a long way when working with a staffing company.
Do keep in touch with your recruiter. Communication is key. Many people make the mistake of registering with a staffing company and never checking in with them again. It is your responsibility to check in with your recruiter regularly– to ask about potential opportunities and to provide any updates regarding your availability. A good rule of thumb is to check in with your recruiter once a week.
Don’t provide false information. When registering with a staffing company, keep in mind that your recruiter is on your side. Thus, it’s important to be fully open and honest about your background, including your education and work experience. Embellishing details or leaving out pertinent information will not work in your favor. Staffing companies typically conduct background checks and call references, so honesty is always the best policy.
Do put your best foot forward. When you’ve accepted your first temporary job, it’s important to put your best foot forwardfrom day one. This includes arriving 5-10 minutes early, dressed appropriately for the position. Greet the other employees warmly and maintain a positive attitude throughout the day. When you finish an assignment, don’t read a book or play around on the internet; instead, ask your supervisor what else you can do to help. Remember: the job might be temporary now, but you never know what opportunities might arise down the road.
Don’t overcommit. When your recruiter presents a potential job to you, make sure to get all of the details. This includes the job responsibilities, pay rate, required hours, and duration of the assignment. If you can’t commit to the entire assignment, be honest with your recruiter. It’s better to let him know up front than to accept a temporary job and be unable to complete it.
Do take advantage of training opportunities. Most staffing companies offer free training to help you brush up on your skills. Types of training might include help with interview preparation or software tutorials. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of these free services; you can update your skills while also showing your recruiter just how serious you are about finding work.
For more information about working successfully with a staffing company, please contact us today.
