Whether you’re a new graduate or changing careers, everyone dreads job-searching. The process can be difficult, complicated, and stressful no matter what field you’re in or how qualified you are. 

Thankfully, there are employment agencies out there that are ready to help. Working with a staffing company can take some of that stress off your shoulders and make job-searching simple.

 

What is a staffing company? 

In short, a staffing company is a bridge that connects people like you with companies you’ll love. Companies utilize staffing agencies to bring them qualified candidates and consult with their HR departments. They are invaluable resources to the job market. 

But how can staffing companies help you? Easy- by bringing jobs to you.

An employment agency typically has databases full of open positions in a variety of fields, such as industrial, office-clerical and administrative, professional-managerial, engineering, information technology, science, and even healthcare. No matter what job you’re looking for, employment agencies are here to help.  

 

Myths about staffing companies 

Many believe that staffing companies only help those who are looking for temporary jobs. While the American Staffing Association reports that during an average year, staffing companies help around 16 million temporary and contract employees, that is not always the case. 

The goal of many staffing companies is to eventually find their candidates a long-term position they are happy with.  That's even if that position starts as a temporary job first.  

A second misconception is that employment agencies only work with lower-skilled workers. Although employment agencies are wonderful resources to those who are looking for jobs who may not have a high skill set, the American Staffing Association also reported 40 percent of staffing employees work in higher-skilled occupations. An employment agency is truly a resource for all. 

Another myth about employment agencies is that their services cost an arm and a leg. In reality, a good, reliable staffing agency should be free.  

If a staffing agency is asking you for money, they may not be a company you want to work with. You should never be charged to work with a staffing agency.  

Lastly, there are plenty of workers that believe employment agencies view their candidates as just another number in their computer network. That is simply not true! Employment agencies would not be able to do the work that they do without forming close, personal relationships with everyone who comes to them for help.

6 Benefits of working with a staffing company 

Now that we’ve gotten the misconceptions out of the way, it’s time to start talking about the benefits. As you may have already guessed, the expertise and personability of employment agencies make them a great resource to all different kinds of workers.

KForce and EG Workforce Solutions both created extensive lists of a staffing agency’s various benefits. We’ve combined those lists below to give you the most information: 

  1. A personal fit: When you work with a staffing company, you’re paired with a skilled recruiter that gets to know you as a person - your career goals, your preferred work environment, and your most valuable skills. They personally help you polish your resume, and will advocate on your behalf for a the right position, benefits, and salary. 

  1. More opportunities: Working with a staffing agency means having access to their wide network of possible employers. Because they work so closely with certain companies, they have key insight into what environment is the best fit for you. Recruiters will get your resume on the desk of the right employers - people you may not have known were hiring!  

  1. Streamline your options: Employment agencies help you streamline your long list of possible employers. They will carefully go through the various job descriptions and titles to find the best fit for you. 

  1. Scheduling interviews: Once you apply for that perfect position, an employment agency will coordinate and help you prepare for interviews. If you have any concerns about your resume, your recruiter will give you tips on how to address them in an interview. Don’t be nervous, your recruiter has you covered. 

  1. Long-standing relationship: An employment agency doesn't disappear after you secure that position. They continue to support you, check in on you, and help you adjust long after you begin working. Employment agencies can help you manage all the paperwork, payroll, benefits, and training that comes with starting a new job. They are also in constant contact with your employer to make sure you’re getting everything you need.  

  1. Flexibility after placement: One of the best things about employment agencies is their flexibility. Recruiters understand that your new position might not be the best fit for you, and can help you transition to a different company, job, or occupation. As long as you communicate with your recruiter, they can help you leave your current or new job on good terms. 

 

How to Make the Most of Your Employment Agency Partnership


Partnering with an employment agency is a two-way street. To maximize your chances of success, here are three essential tips that will help you build a productive relationship with your recruiter:


1. Be Clear About Your Goals

When working with a staffing company, transparency is key. Be upfront about your salary expectations, desired work environment, and career objectives. This helps employment agencies match you with the most suitable opportunities. 

Don't hesitate to discuss deal-breakers with your staffing company like minimum salary requirements or non-negotiable benefits. This saves everyone time and ensures you're only presented with relevant positions.


2. Stay Engaged and Responsive

Employment agencies work quickly to fill positions. Maintain regular communication with your recruiter and respond promptly to job opportunities. A staffing company can only help you if you're actively engaged in the process. 

Set up email alerts on your phone, check your messages regularly, and aim to respond to your recruiter within 24 hours. Remember, the most desirable positions often get filled fast, so timely communication with your staffing agency is crucial.


3. Keep Your Skills Current

The best employment agencies often provide access to training and development resources. Take advantage of these opportunities to enhance your marketability and stay competitive in your field. 

Whether it's brushing up on the latest industry software or earning new certifications, investing in your professional development shows initiative and makes you more attractive to potential employers. Many employment agencies offer free or discounted access to online learning platforms so make sure to ask your recruiter about these valuable resources.


How to Choose the Right Employment Agency for Your Career Goals

Not all employment agencies are created equal. Finding the right partner for your job search requires careful research and evaluation to ensure they can effectively support your career aspirations.

1. Research Their Specialization

Different staffing companies focus on different industries and job levels. Look for a staffing agency with strong experience in your field. For example, if you're in healthcare IT, seek out employment agencies with established relationships in both healthcare and technology sectors.

2. Check Their Reputation

Research the staffing company's track record by doing the following:

●    Read online reviews from both job seekers and employers.
●    Check their Better Business Bureau rating.
●    Look for industry recognitions and awards.
●    Ask for references from successfully placed candidates.

3. Evaluate Their Process

A professional employment agency should have a clear, structured approach to:

●    Candidate screening and assessment
●    Job matching methodology
●    Interview preparation
●    Placement follow-up
●    Ongoing support

4. Assess Their Network

Quality employment agencies maintain strong relationships with reputable employers in your industry. Ask about:

●    The types of companies they work with
●    Their success rate in your field
●    The average time to placement
●    The percentage of temporary vs. permanent placements


5. Consider Communication Style

The best employment agencies maintain open, consistent communication. During initial conversations, evaluate:

●    How quickly they respond to inquiries
●    The clarity of their explanations
●    Their willingness to answer questions
●    The professionalism of their staff

Choose an employment agency that aligns with your communication preferences and demonstrates a genuine interest in your career success.


Nesco Resource - A Staffing Company You Can Trust

If you are struggling with finding opportunities, choosing from offers, scheduling interviews, or are anxious about what happens after you land a job, then working with an employment agency might just be the solution for you. 

Job-searching is already difficult as it is. Don’t make it harder on yourself! Work with an employment agency today, and you might score that dream job tomorrow. Employment agencies are a great resource that you cannot ignore. 

Sounds interesting? From short-term contracts to long-term placements, Nesco Resource can help you find the right fit, right now.

We've been transforming careers since 1956. As a nationally-ranked staffing and workforce solutions company, we understand that finding the right job is about more than just matching skills to requirements. 

Whether you're seeking temporary assignments, permanent placement, or exploring new career paths, our dedicated team is here to guide you every step of the way. Let's work together to find your next great opportunity.