I have been an Executive Assistant for 25 years.

I have been an Executive Assistant for 25 years. Ever since the Pandemic and the Election, everything is only contracted roles- or at least most of them.

I am out of unemployment because I exhausted my benefits in between contracted roles and can’t file a new claim until the 2nd of June.

Last week, after interviewing for a contracted role for a medical leave, I accepted it and passed all compliance and background checks with the recruiter in charge of the company. The role was to fill in at reception until the other person returned.

After two hours at the assignment with the company I was assigned to, the person I reported to onsite told me they were sending me home. I asked them why and they said they weren’t sure, and to call the agency.

I called the agency (while still there) after organizing the file supply cabinet. They didn’t have any idea, told me to leave until they got a hold of the Manager in charge of placing the fill in at company X. I was shocked and had no idea whatsoever what was going on.

After I returned home, I called the recruiter back and I asked them what happened. They gave me some ridiculous explanation that after accepting the position, (which they told me they needed a receptionist because the other employee’s couldn’t keep up with the responsibility) that they decided they didn’t need a receptionist after all and they would pay me for the day.

Unfortunately, this is far from the first time this has happened to me with recruiters. I asked them if I did something wrong-they said no, it was just a last minute decision they were unaware of.

Another time, I accepted a contract role, cleared all references, background check, fingerprinting and drug test. I got a call the day before my start date that they cut the position.

I am curious to know if this has happened to anyone else. I try to avoid recruiters for this very reason of negative experiences. I apply to companies directly instead of relying solely on recruiters. I network and I also volunteer. I am very frustrated by all of this and feeling very discouraged by these disappointments.

If anyone has an advice or recommendations, I’d appreciate it. I am also available for any personal assistance to families or professionals who are in need of a solid assistant and a New York Notary Public. Please PM me if interested.

Thank You