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How do you feel about staffing agencies?
I'm currently working with a few staffing agencies on top of looking for work through job lists. Overall, I've had better luck with finding positions that suit my interests and because of the relationship they have with their clients, I'm able to stake a better claim for a job. Most positions from job boards are seeing hundreds of applicants they may not normally see, making my application insignificant. How do you feel about them? Any luck with staffing agencies? Which ones have you worked with?
Staffing agencies often learn of opportunities before they are posted elsewhere. Check out the company they represent (for long term/short term potential) so that you go into an interview with both eyes open. Remember that the staffing company works for the employer (not you) but doesn't get paid if their candidate is not hired. Make sure they prepare you for the interview - it's a partnership. Now if the staffing company is really a consulting company and they will be your employer BE WARY. That is a very different situation.
I get a lot of calls from staffing agencies looking to place me in currently openings and to keep my resume on file, nothing has come of it.
Staffing agencies are in the business of filling openings for their client as fast as possible. They work for them and not us. I try not to take it personal but its hard no to especially when you are try to find work.
I would love to hear about good staffing agencies in NYC! When I first moved here (over a decade ago) I worked with a few, but only one really seemed invested in me (and I did end up getting placed in a FT position through them). But like you said, now it almost feels like the job boards - even if you're networking with those companies! - are a lost cause.
From a company stand point, we receive candidates from Staffing agencies and a percentage have been placed with us.
From a personal stand point, I have been placed in contract roles and FTE roles with companies as the staffing agency submitted my CV to the company. I think it depends on what you're looking for, in terms of roles, contract or FT, and benefits.
It is catch 22 for me, for there are those that actually you can work with over and but then I have some that I felt like a used car