21st February 2008
Why do job seekers go to employment agencies if they are looking for permanent work? Why would an employer use an employment agency?
Using a recruitment agency has advantages for both the employer and the job seeker.
There are many ways to look for employment. Job Centre Plus, newspaper advertisements and the internet are among the top search methods, but sometimes you want to know more than the advertisement says or need additional support. Some companies provide a phone number for further information, but it’s still basically one-way information. The job seeker is still left searching through job specification and person specification and wondering if the job is right for them.
At Terrace Recruitment, the consultants sit down and listen to what type of work candidates are looking for and what skills and qualification they hold. Not everyone realises what transferable skills they have, and doesn’t always think of a position that a consultant will identify as a skills match. A consultant is there to answer the questions job seekers have about all aspects of the job and company. Parents returning to work after maternity, paternity or adoption leave might want to work for a company with strong family values, but this would be difficult to discover prior to the interview. A recruitment consultant provides more information than what is written on the advertisement. Consultants have met or spoken with the employers. At Terrace Recruitment, consultants speak extensively with the employers to ensure an ideal employer/job seeker match is made.
Job seekers do not pay anything for the help and advice they receive; it is free. Recruitment agencies’ fees are paid for by the employer.
Why would employers pay for a recruitment agency rather than fill the position themselves? At first it seems like an excessive expense, but closer examination reveals that companies who use agencies are savvy spenders.
Being understaffed in the work place creates extra stress and work, and while initially, posting or e-mailing a few application forms doesn’t appear to be too time consuming, it can quickly become a major part of someone’s workload. The person, who is required to complete the extra tasks, might not be an experienced human resources practitioner. By using a recruitment consultant, employers are letting a professional handle the recruitment process. After all, you wouldn’t hire a plumber to build a wall.
At Terrace Recruitment, a consultant meets with the employer to find out about all aspects of the job and the company. By actively listening to the employer and the job seeker, the consultant will endeavour to provide candidates who not only possess the required skills, but job seekers who will also bring additional expertise.
Whether you are looking for employment or have vacancies to fill, contact Nicola at Terrace Recruitment 01709 866466 for more information.
