Temp Agencies - The Good, the Bad, the Time Wasters

One of your greatest resources in searching out a job can be a temp agency. Especially in this down economy, it is a great option to simply tide you over in work until you can find a great paying and stable job. In fact it can even turn into a great paying and stable job. There are many different types of agencies and it is very important to research them thoroughly before putting all your hope into them.

1. Specialty. One of the most important things you can find out before placing your application in with a temp agency is to find out the occupations that they normally place for. If you are in construction, putting your resume in with a temp agency that specializes in clerical work can be self defeating. It is important to ask specific questions pertaining to this issue, while a temp agency might say they cater to all different fields, know that if they placed 90% of their workers in office jobs that is where they have their connections and you might be waiting an awful long time before you get the call.

2. Location. This is important to gauge especially because there are so many national brands out there advertising so many different field offices. This is something you have to take into consideration when choosing a temp agency. There might be local branches advertising the huge amount of jobs and placements they have nationally while not having placed anyone in that location for months. Also make sure you specify whether you would like to travel and consider whether it would be worthwhile to have a long commute

3. Techniques. Find out the technique of the temp agency that you work for. Do you send in an internet application and they call if they see anything you qualify for. This makes it more difficult for a temp because that means they are focusing on the companies they work with more than the temps. This also less personal interaction and makes it take much more time and motivation to get employment. The other technique is one where they interview you after you apply and then focus much more on getting you a job. This includes setting up tests so they can verify your experience and has much more communication with you regarding your job search. This option is much more effective and I was able to find employment within a few weeks through this type of company.