How to Choose the Right Staffing Service for Your Needs

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Question: How are staffing firms like clothes?

Answer: They come in all shapes and sizes, and the right fit is essential.

In today’s staffing industry, the range of services, niche specialties, industries served, employment policies and payroll schedules can vary greatly from company to company.  Logically, you’re more likely to find rewarding employment with a firm whose services match your needs.

So how do you choose the company that’s right for you?  Here is a list of questions you should ask when evaluating a staffing firm, to find that perfect fit:

  1. What is your specialty? Some staffing services (like Snelling) place people in a wide range of fields – from administrative and light industrial to medical, accounting and IT.  By working with this type of service, you can try out different types of jobs in diverse industries.  Other services, however, specialize in a specific industry or field – which may be right for you if you’re certain of your career path.
  2. Who are some of your clients? While some staffing agencies work with an impressive roster of large corporations, others place candidates at smaller companies, and some (like Snelling Staffing Services) work with a mixture of both.  The key here is to select a firm that does business with the types of clients for whom you’d like to work.
  3. What kind of placements do you make? Again, this will vary from service to service.  Many staffing firms (like Snelling) offer a full complement of employment opportunities, including temporary, temp-to-hire, contract and direct positions.  Others may specialize in one or more of these options.  Choose an agency that matches your employment interests.
  4. Do you charge any fees for finding me work? Staffing agencies should never charge you a fee for placing you in either a temporary or direct position.
  5. Do you offer benefits?  Skills training?  Referral bonuses? Some staffing agencies offer candidates perks like free online skills straining or the ability to purchase health insurance benefits.  Others will pay you a bonus if you refer a qualified candidate whom they place.  If benefits are essential to you, be sure to ask about this up front.
  6. If an employer wants to hire me directly, what is your agency’s policy? A staffing firm should have a formal policy to address temp-to-hire conversions.
  7. Will my job search be kept confidential? This factor may be important if you are currently employed.

Other Questions to Ask:

  • What kind of pay can I expect to earn, given my skills?
  • How / when will I be paid?
  • What is your overtime policy?
  • How can I find out about available assignments or direct placement opportunities?
  • Whom should I speak with if I encounter a problem while on assignment?

Is Snelling the Right Fit for You?

Over the past 60 years, Snelling Staffing Services has matched tens of thousands of job seekers nationwide to the right employment opportunities.  We provide temporary, temp-to-hire, contract and direct placement positions in a wide range of practice areas, job categories and industries.

Is Snelling the right fit for you?  Contact the Snelling office in your hometown today to find out!