You may be searching “job agencies near me” already, but you should prepare to work with an agency or recruiter with the same interest and participation as applying for your ideal job. The staffing agency should match your needs. Make sure to ask the following questions:

• What type of employment opportunities do you offer? Temporary, short-term or long-term?
• Do you work with businesses in my industry?
• How often do you facilitate the employment of others with my background and skill set?
• Will you proactively market me as a candidate?
• How does the process work?

Your agency application process will likely include an interview portion. You should be honest with what you are looking for and need. Discuss your salary expectations. A recruiter may suggest a rate based on your experience, skills, and location.

The agency may assign a specific representative to oversee your account. You should have clear communication with your representative. If they respond to your emails late, what type of impression are they making on your behalf?

If you are just starting working and do not know what you want to do, temp agency jobs may be a good way to try entry-level positions in different fields. But a staffing agency may find short-term employment in your industry that gives you more experience for the next job.

Likewise, recruiting agencies can show you positions that advance your career quickly. A recruiter will not rewrite your resume, but they can give you advice on making it stand out from other candidates. 

A recruiter may be able to help you pivot to a new career. For example, a sales representative going to school for nursing may want a job in medical sales to transition into their new field. 

You may want to have your next gig lined up before the current one ends. Some staffing companies have an online database that lets you apply for open job positions or accept new assignments. 

Stay in contact with your staffing representative or recruiter, even when you have a temporary assignment. Recruiters are human, and a reminder can help them keep you in mind for upcoming positions. 

Your state may have government-run employment agencies. Most states have an online website with a live job feed, a way to apply, and additional job-seeking resources.

Keep your resume and contact information current. Take time to customize cover letters for prospective employers. The biggest tip is to stay on top of work-related tasks.