What to Expect when Registering with Temp Agencies

Applying for jobs online is a laborious and time consuming task. You can spend several hours a day scanning through the databases of job search engines applying for various positions, answering the same questions over and over again and get no call back. Applying for jobs in person is just as tough and depending on the location of the institution that is hiring, transportation fare can get really expensive. That is why many job searchers save time and register with temp agencies. Temp agencies help individuals quickly seek employment. If you have never registered with a temp agency before you might be feeling a bit nervous. To help calm your nerves I have outlined what registering with temp agencies usually entail.

1. You must first call in to the agency to make an appointment to come in so that an agent can assist you with job search. The receptionist might ask you if you have ever worked with the agency and will take your name. You will then be transferred to the next available agent. The agent will then ask you; when the last time was that you have worked and where you have worked, why you left your last job, and what type of work you are looking for. The agent will give you a date and time to come in. You will be told what to bring to the appointment. Some agents will also email you; a list of what to bring, the directions to the office and the contact information of the agent.

The appointment can last up to 3 hours so be sure to eat a decent breakfast and plan enough time for the appointment so that you do not have to leave unexpectedly. You should dress professional. Ladies should wear button ups, slacks, and dress shoes. Men should wear business suits or button up shirts with a tie, pants, and shoes. You should also brush up on Microsoft Office word, and excel as you may be tested on these programs.

2. When you arrive at the agency you will be greeted by the receptionist. Tell her your name, the time of your appointment and who it is with. The receptionist will then ask you for the documents that you were told to bring over the phone or through email. Give her the documents. She will then give you tax forms to fill out and tell you where to sign and date. When you fill out the forms be sure to take your time and read every question carefully. Neatly fill out each forms The neater that you write the more serious you will be taken. If you do not understand a question do not be afraid to ask for help.

3. Next, you will hand in the forms and will be sent to a computer station to be tested for computer literacy. You may be tested in data entry, Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word. Each test will be timed and you will be given a score upon completion of the tests. You will not see the scores right there on the screen but may get a chance to see them later during the actual appointment with an agent.

4. You will then go the receptionist and may have to hand her a confirmation number to show that you have completed the tests. You will then be seated and told to wait for the agent (that you scheduled the appointment with) to meet you. You might be waiting for up to 45 minutes depending on how busy the agent is that day. You must get impatient and leave. Wait kindly and patiently for your turn.

5. You will then be called in by the agent. Be sure to introduce yourself and offer a firm handshake. You will be taken in a backroom to discuss your resume, test scores, references, jobs you are interested in, and any other information the agent feels that you should know. During this appointment try your best not to slouch. Speak clearly, and make eye contact. Your body language tells a great deal about the type of person you are. It's all about presentation. You should try your best to be presentable and personable. Answer all questions honestly and again do not feel too afraid to ask questions.

6. At the end of the appointment the agent will get a better idea of you personality and of the type of work that you are interested. You will be given a time sheet and some packets that talk about the temp agency. The agent may tell you that she will give you a call when she finds a place for you.

7. The appointment is now over but do not think that your work is done. You should call into the agency every 3 days to check in and ask if there are any positions available for you. This will show the agent that you are eager and ready to work.